On October 2, 2025, Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands witnessed a rare and powerful eruption of India’s only active mud volcano, which had been dormant for over 20 years. Located in the North and Middle Andaman district, approximately 150 km from Port Blair, the eruption occurred at Jarawa Creek and was accompanied by a loud noise and the formation of a 3–4 meter-high mound of mud, water, and gas that spread over an area of more than 1,000 square meters.
GSI Investigation Underway
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has dispatched a team of seven geologists from Kolkata to investigate the eruption. They are scheduled to arrive on October 7 to collect samples of mud and gas for analysis. GSI Deputy Director General Shantanu Bhattacharjee noted that the eruption was likely triggered by tectonic movements in the region, which lies within a subduction zone where the Indian Plate descends beneath the Burmese Plate.
[greenalert_blog_Ad]
Safety Measures Implemented
In response to the eruption, local authorities have closed all approach routes to the volcano and suspended visitor access to ensure public safety. The site, a popular tourist destination, has been temporarily shut down pending the results of the GSI’s investigation.
Understanding Mud Volcanoes
Mud volcanoes, unlike magmatic volcanoes, are formed by the release of gases and fluids from deep within the Earth that push mud and gas to the surface, creating bubbles and craters. The Andaman region’s unique geological setting makes it a significant area for studying such phenomena.
[greenalert_blog_Ad]
Implications for the Region
The GSI’s forthcoming analysis aims to provide insights into the causes of the eruption and assess any potential risks to the surrounding environment and communities. Given the region’s history of seismic activity, including recent eruptions at Barren Island, the findings could have implications for understanding the broader tectonic dynamics of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands.
Public Advisory
As investigations continue, authorities urge the public to stay informed through official channels and adhere to safety advisories. The GSI’s report, expected in the coming weeks, will shed light on the eruption’s causes and potential impacts.