Over half of the country’s area is vulnerable to earthquakes with several cities at a high risk, as reported by a catastrophe risk management firm. The firm has also advised closing these gaps as quickly as possible to minimise the loss of property and life.

"More than half of India by area is vulnerable to earthquakes and almost forty cities are particularly at risk. The rapid expansion in population and development in India is moving too fast to ensure adequate standards of protection," Robert Muir-Wood, chief research officer of the firm RMS, said, according to a statement.

Muir-Wood also noted that the number of people exposed to flood risk is the highest in India as compared to any other country worldwide, and also has the fastest increase in flood risk from development and climate change.

According to him, other cities might face the similar outcome of devastating widespread damage as Nepal faced last year after a massive quake hit the Himalayan country.

In reference to the 2001 Gujarat earthquake, 2005 Mumbai floods and inundation in Chennai last year, Muir-Wood added, "...the protection gap in India must be closed."