Baratang’s Mud Volcano Erupts After Two Decades of Dormancy

India’s only mud volcano at Baratang in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands erupted on October 2, 2023, marking its first major activity in over two decades. The eruption, which was accompanied by a loud explosive sound, surprised local residents and officials alike. According to the news agency PTI, the event has prompted immediate attention from authorities due to safety concerns.

Baratang is located approximately 150 kilometers from Port Blair and is renowned for its unique geological features. The mud volcano is formed by gases released from decaying organic matter deep within the earth, which pushes mud and gas to the surface, resulting in bubbling mud and crater formations. It has become a significant attraction for tourists visiting the region.

On the afternoon of October 2, local police received reports around 13:30 about the eruption at Jarwa Creek. A senior police officer confirmed that the eruption was notable and reminiscent of a similar event in 2005. After the eruption was reported, local police and forest officials quickly proceeded to the site to assess the situation.

The recent eruption resulted in the formation of an earth mound approximately 3 to 4 meters in height, with muddy soil spreading over more than 1,000 square meters. Officials noted that the eruption is ongoing, with mud and smoke continuing to rise from the site. As a precautionary measure, authorities have halted tourist access to the volcano, and the Forest Department has closed the surrounding routes. The incident has also been reported to the Geological Department for further investigation.

Understanding Mud Volcanoes

Mud volcanoes, also known as ‘mud domes,’ are geological formations that differ significantly from traditional volcanoes. Unlike their lava-spewing counterparts, mud volcanoes erupt mud slurries, water, and gases, primarily methane, but can also include carbon dioxide and nitrogen. This unique eruption process creates cone-like structures that resemble typical volcanoes but lack molten lava.

Mud volcanoes can vary in size, standing between one and two meters to over 700 meters tall, and can extend from one to ten kilometers in width. The mud produced during these eruptions is often involved in the formation of hot water springs. Typically, the temperatures of mud volcanoes are lower than those of traditional volcanoes.

In addition to the activity at Baratang, there have been recent eruptions at Barren Island, located approximately 140 kilometers from Port Blair. Minor volcanic activity was recorded on September 13 and 20, 2023. Barren Island, which lies at the junction of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates, has a history of volcanic eruptions dating back to 1787.

Safety Measures and Public Awareness

Local authorities have taken comprehensive safety measures following the mud volcano eruption. The police have informed the Fiber Boat Owners’ Association and local tourist vehicle operators about the suspension of access to the mud volcano site. Officials emphasized the distinct nature of the mud volcano in Baratang compared to the eruptive activity at Barren Island, clarifying that these geological phenomena occur at separate locations.

The geological activity in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands has garnered the attention of both local residents and tourists, highlighting the region’s unique volcanic landscape. As authorities continue to monitor the situation, the safety of both locals and visitors remains a top priority.