Imagine a volcano that’s quietly rumbling back to life—this is the current situation with India’s only active volcano, Barren Island. Last week, it experienced two small eruptions, and while they were gentle and posed no immediate danger, they remind us that nature’s fiery forces are never entirely at rest. But here’s where it gets controversial: should authorities ramp up their surveillance of this remote volcanic island? Or is the current level of monitoring enough? These eruptions, which took place on September 13 and September 20, were classified as mild, meaning they didn’t threaten nearby communities or infrastructure. Located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 138 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, Barren Island is a tiny, rugged landmass covering about 3 square kilometers. Its landscape is dominated by volcanic cones and ash deposits, with only sparse vegetation visible from afar. Standing at 354 meters above sea level, it’s a striking geological feature that adds to the dramatic scenery of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Historically, Barren Island has been active for centuries, with recorded eruptions dating back to 1787. Over the years, it has seen several notable eruptions, including significant events in 2017 and 2022, with the most recent in July of this year. Despite these periodic bursts of activity, officials continue to keep a close eye on the island, though the latest eruptions are considered minor and do not threaten human settlements. This ongoing activity raises questions about how much monitoring is enough—should we be more vigilant, or is the current approach sufficient? What do you think—should the government increase surveillance of Barren Island, or is the current level of observation adequate? Share your thoughts and opinions—this is a topic that definitely sparks debate.
