Watch: Minor eruptions recorded at India’s only active volcano, Barren Island

Barren Island is a remote volcanic island that spans roughly 3 sq km, and is located in the Andaman Sea. The island is dominated by volcanic cones and ash deposits, with considerably less visible vegetation.

Rising at an elevation of 354 m above sea level, it is one of most prominent natural features of the Andaman and Nicobar archipelago. Now the reason for it to be on the news is renewed volcanic activity. As per the latest news reports, volcanic activity has been reported at Barren Island, the only active volcano in India and Asia, which officials also confirmed on Monday.Read more: Visit these 5 Indian destinations that touch other countries to see life beyond bordersFurther as per a PTI report, the eruptions took place on September 13 and September 20, and were described as mild in nature.

Meanwhile, the authorities have clarified that as of now, there is no immediate threat to nearby areas or human settlements.

If we go by the recorded history of eruptions, Barren Island witnessed one in 1787, and since then it has experienced multiple phases of activity, some lasting for years. The most notable recent eruptions include significant episodes in 2017, 2022, and as recently as July 2023, before the latest minor activity this September.

Read more: Flight operations impacted at major Nordic airports after drone sightings force temporary closuresScientists have noted that the island’s eruptions are generally Strombolian to Vulcanian in nature, producing ash clouds and occasional lava flows but rarely posing a large-scale hazard due to its isolated location. The island is uninhabited, though fishermen and tourists sometimes approach its waters for adventure cruises or diving excursions.Officials said the September 2023 eruptions were relatively mild and continue to be closely monitored by agencies responsible for geological and seismic activity in the region. While the latest activity poses no risk to nearby populations, experts emphasize the importance of continuous monitoring, given Barren Island’s volatile geological history.