Baratang, India’s Only Mud Volcano In Andamans, Erupted After Almost 20 Years!

Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands is home to India’s only mud volcano, a rare natural wonder that recently came alive after nearly two decades. The sudden eruption has drawn attention from travellers and nature enthusiasts, making it a fascinating reminder of the island’s unique geology. Scroll on to know more about this.

India’s Only Mud Volcano Erupts After Two Decades In Andamans

According to NDTV, after being dormant for nearly two decades, India’s only mud volcano at Baratang in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands erupted on October 2 at around 1.30 PM. Reportedly, a deafening eruption was recorded at Jarwa Creek in Baratang. The last massive eruption was reported in 2005.

While addressing the media, an official said, “The mud volcano here is formed by gases deep inside the earth from decaying organic matter. It pushes the mud and gas to the surface, which creates bubbles and craters. It is one of the must-visit spots in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.”

They further shared that a deafening sound, similar to an explosion, was heard after the Baratang mud volcano erupted. Local police officers and forest officials have visited the site to learn more about the volcanic eruption.

After the eruption, an earth mound of about 3-4 metres in height has formed, and the muddy soil has spread over an area of more than 1,000 sq metres, the official added.

It is to be noted that the eruption is continuing, and mud and smoke can still be seen coming out of the Baratang volcano. Keeping the safety of tourists in mind, the movement of tourists towards the mud volcano has been stopped. Furthermore, the Forest Department has closed the approach routes. The incident has also been reported to the Geological Department.

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More About The Mud Volcano

The Baratang mud volcano is located in the North and Middle Andaman district. It is about 150 km away from Port Blair. It is India’s only mud volcano and attracts thousands of tourists every year. The first-ever recorded eruption at Barren Island took place in 1787. Reports suggest that mild eruptions were recorded in 1991, 2005, 2017, and the most recent one was in November 2022.

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More details about the eruption are awaited.

Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia Commons & X/@JohnWilbert93