Ethiopian Geological Institute Denounces Baseless Earthquake Claims Surrounding GERD

The Ethiopian Geological Institute has dismissed claims by media outlets, such as ‘Egypt Independent,’ regarding an earthquake risk near the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The Institute confirmed that there is no geological basis for such rumors and emphasized that the dam is located safely away from significant seismic activity in the region.

The Ethiopian Geological Institute has refuted claims made by various media outlets, including ‘Egypt Independent,’ regarding an alleged earthquake risk around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). In a statement released on October 8, 2024, the Institute asserted that there is no geological evidence to support fears of an earthquake in the vicinity of the GERD. Geologically, rift valleys are known to be prone to seismic activity, and Ethiopia, located within the East African Rift Valley system, has experienced earthquakes throughout its history. However, the Institute emphasized that these seismic events have not resulted in significant damage to the region. Director General Ijara Tesfaye clarified that a recent minor earthquake measured at a 4.9 magnitude occurred approximately 150 kilometers from Addis Ababa, in an area known as Fental. He dismissed reports that linked this earthquake to a threat to the GERD as entirely fabricated, reinforcing that there is no substantial evidence to connect seismic activity in the Rift Valley to other areas. During the GERD’s construction, comprehensive assessments were conducted to evaluate the risks associated with geological events, concluding that the dam is not in an earthquake-prone zone. Ijara Tesfaye remarked that despite the history of seismic activity in Ethiopia, no incidents have occurred close to the GERD. Thus, he stated, “the information being circulated about earthquake risk is incorrect,” underscoring the thorough geological surveys that underlie the project.

The Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a flagship project of Ethiopia, has been at the center of regional discussions and controversies, particularly with countries like Egypt and Sudan regarding water rights and resource management on the Nile River. Geological considerations, including seismic risks, are vital to the dam’s construction and operation due to the implications for safety and structural integrity. The Ethiopian Geological Institute serves as an authority on geological assessments and has addressed recent misleading reports that raise concerns over seismic hazards near the GERD, clarifying the reality of Ethiopia’s seismic landscape and the dam’s safety.

In summary, the Ethiopian Geological Institute has categorically condemned the reports from certain media outlets alleging a risk of earthquakes around the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam as unfounded and misleading. Comprehensive geological assessments conducted prior to the dam’s construction confirm that it is not situated in a hazardous seismic zone. Thus, the Institute urges the media to refrain from propagating misinformation that could unduly alarm the public and stakeholders concerning the GERD.

Original Source: www.ena.et