The phenomenon of earthquakes in Ethiopia near the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) has raised serious concerns among experts in remote sensing and Earth systems sciences. Hesham al-Askary, a professor of Remote Sensing and Earth Systems Sciences at Chapman University in the United States, recently highlighted a significant increase in the number of earthquakes in the region, particularly since the construction of the GERD.
In a telephone interview with al-Hadath al-Youm TV on Saturday evening, Askary stressed that the African Rift Valley region is indeed seismically active, but the recent increase in the number of earthquakes is a cause for concern. He noted that the earthquakes recorded so far are still far from the GERD area, with the exception of a worrying earthquake in 2023, located only 100 kilometers from the dam.
Askary spoke of the need for further research into earthquakes that could occur due to the pressure exerted by the lake formed by the GERD on the Earth’s crust. He said: “I can’t say scientifically that the lake is responsible for the increased frequency of earthquakes, but I see something strange happening.”
“We have been monitoring the dam with satellites, observing wetlands where there has been no rain, which means that it is not rainwater but water leaking in some way. This water leakage is a cause for great concern.”
Professor Askary’s analysis raises critical questions about the potential impact of the construction of the GERD on seismic activity in the region. There is no denying that recent seismic events require increased vigilance and in-depth study of these phenomena in order to better anticipate and manage the geological risks associated with the GERD project.
In a context where securing water infrastructure is essential, it becomes imperative to deepen scientific research and put in place preventive and mitigation measures to ensure the stability and security of the surrounding region. The conclusions of the ongoing studies will be crucial to inform future decisions regarding the GERD and to ensure the protection of populations and the environment from potentially devastating geological events.
In conclusion, it is essential to heed the warnings from earth science experts regarding the seismic risks associated with the construction of the GERD in Ethiopia. The security and stability of the region depend on appropriate measures and a thorough analysis of the impacts of the project, highlighting the crucial importance of scientific research to guide actions towards a safer and more resilient future for all.