Being in a seismically active zone, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, our lovely tropical paradise, do sometimes experience the natural phenomenon of an earthquake. The entire islands were recently shaken by an earthquake of moderate intensity.
Of course, the very first question that comes to your mind if you have a trip booked or are planning one is: Is Andaman safe for tourists right now?
At Go Andaman Holidays, the best travel agent in Andaman, we put your safety first of all and therefore, our answer to your question is a very loud ‘YES’, which is supported by the facts and by the strong reaction of the locals.
The Facts: Knowing the Recent Seismic Event
It is very necessary to differentiate between small, frequent seismic activities and a major disaster. A moderate earthquake of approximately 5.4–6.0 magnitude recently struck the Andaman Sea. What was reported:
Uninjured and Undamaged Report
The Chief Secretary, the emergency services, and other local authorities, through social media platforms, confirmed that fewer injuries and no deaths, nor any significant damage to property or tourist infrastructure, were observed in the main areas like Port Blair, Havelock (Swaraj Dweep), and Neil Island (Shaheed Dweep).
The Epicenter was Far Below
The origin of the quake was determined to be at a substantial depth (around 90km); thus a great deal of the vibration that would normally be felt at the surface was attenuated by the earth's crust above the epicenter of the quake.
No Tsunami Warning
No Tsunami warnings or alerts were made by the Indian Ocean Tsunami Warning and Mitigation System (IOTWMS) or local authorities, implying that no major threat to the coast resulted from the event.
Why Andaman Remains a Safe Destination – The Go Andaman Holidays Guarantee
One of the primary reasons the islands are considered safe is that they are a naturally geologically active region, and we, as local tour operators, are fully aware of and accept this fact. If you take a trip with us, you’ll be protected.
Go Andaman Holidays, the best travel agent in Andaman, can guarantee your safety. The basis of our assurance in giving such a holiday recommendation lies in the fact that:
1. Robust Safety Protocols and Preparedness
We have Disaster Management protocols that we follow as per Andaman and Nicobar Administration guidelines that are very well organized for different eventualities:
Immediate Response: Our staff is always ready to called into action, as well as the local authorities, thus showing the effectiveness of the established safety system in the region.
Tourism Industry Alertness: Go Andaman Holidays rapidly communicates with all partners on the ground (hotels, ferry operators, and dive centers) to confirm a quick survey and the implementation of safety instructions. Any changes in your itinerary will always result from official advisories.
Earthquake Resilient Structures: Tourist area buildings, in particular, new hotels, are built following standards that ensure minimal damage during earthquakes and hence the safety of the guests.
2. Modern Monitoring and Early Warning Systems
After the tragic tsunami that happened in 2004 in the Indian Ocean, changes were made to improve the region, as well as India's monitoring capacities.
24/7 Monitoring: The seismological centers are always on the watch for the tectonic plates in the region. We get updates straight from the source and take action according to that.
Timely Alerts: The official communication networks are there to give earthquake and tsunami warnings immediately which provide enough time for the tourists and locals to follow evacuation procedures for going to a higher place.
3. Life in Andaman Continues
The islands are always ready for a quake like the recent one, and it has not affected everyday life and the tourism sector.
Hotels & Resorts: In fact, they are going through their normal days, and provide the perfect service and the tropical experience that you have booked.
Ferry Services: The inter-island ferries (to Havelock and Neil Island) are available as per the timetable, and the coastal activities have gone back to normal after the quick safety check by the authorities.
General Transport: For going to other destinations like Radhanagar Beach, for example, you will need a scooter, rickshaw or cab service in Andaman. These services have also gone back to normal.
Water Sports: The dive centers and snorkeling operators, who are very much aware of the condition of the ocean, have come out of the water and stated that the vibrant coral reefs and marine life are as beautiful as they have always been.
4. Your Trip is Protected
Here’s the added advantage of traveling with Go Andaman Holidays:
Communication Facilities: If you need to connect with your family/friends, we’ll help you do that. A quick text can save a life.
Speedy Transport: We offer flexible rescheduling options so you can leave in case things get out of hand.
Help From Local Coordinators: We keep in touch with the hotel and ferry operators so we can rescue you if you need it.
Designated Assembly Points: We have decided on certain areas (especially ones high off the ground) to be the spot where groups can meet during emergencies.
Re-booking Your Plans: Once the risk is over, we plan your trip once again so you don’t miss out on anything.
Travel with Confidence: Expert Advice From The Best Travel Agent in Andaman
If you are on the verge of traveling, we suggest that you take the following steps for a safe and stress-free holiday presented to you by the best travel agency for Andaman trip, Go Andaman Holidays:
Stay Informed and Not Alarmed
Don’t get worked up over the rumors being spread on social media which have not been confirmed. We rely on information from the official sources like the District Administration. We’ll let you know beforehand for your safety.
Adhere to Local Instructions
In case we, a local guide or hotel staff member urge you to take a temporary precaution (for example, not going to the beach for a short time) kindly trust our words and follow our advice without delay.
Have Your Exit Path Ready
When you are at the hotel, apart from checking in, take a small amount of time to look at the hotel’s disaster management/evacuation map which is compulsory in all hotels and other establishments.
The Andaman Islands are bright and fresh like always and they are willing to take you in.
The small quake is just a minor detail in the island's long, beautiful history, and the fact that the safety measures were able to be carried out quickly and without any damage shows how well equipped they are.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Is it safe to visit Andaman now?
Yes, of course it’s safe now. The earthquake is over and fortunately, this one did not leave a trail of destruction and death. But even in general Andaman is a safe place. Authorities have taken great measures for the utmost safety.
Q2. Is there any chance of tsunami in Andaman and Nicobar Islands?
Yes, as it did happen once before. The risk is always there. But no tsunami warning or alert followed the recent tremor. Moreover, the Andaman Administration is endowed with a very efficient and modern post-2004 Tsunami Early Warning System that ensures the observation is continuous and the evacuation orders can be given well ahead of time, thus the risk for visitors is almost zero.
Q3. Which is the best travel agency for Andaman trip?
Your top pick should be Go Andaman Holidays. We are fully committed to the safety of the travelers, the thorough insider knowledge of the place, and the provision of local support 24/7. We can assure you that your trip will be smooth and you will get immediate assistance if there is any unforeseen situation.
Q4. How does Go Andaman Holidays protect visitors during an earthquake?
Our defense plan is mainly based on timely action and effective communication. We are in regular contact with the local authorities for updates and instructions. Upon declaration of emergency, our field staff makes the emergency check and ensures comfort guides those in need to the Assembly Point and other official safe zones/higher ground, thereby safeguarding the greatest number of people in the shortest time period.
Q5. What if an earthquake occurs during your trip to Andaman?
If this happens, compose yourself and follow the popular "Drop, Cover, and Hold On" rule. When the tremor is over, it is very important to immediately communicate with the hotel staff and follow their instructions carefully. If your location is near the sea and the quake was strong, your move should be to go inland or higher ground straight away without waiting for any official warning as this is the safest way to be, in any case, whether there is going to be a tsunami or not.
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