Minor Eruptions at Andaman’s Barren Island

Barren Island, a remote landmass in the Andaman Sea, has once again captured the attention of geologists and nature enthusiasts with a series of minor volcanic eruptions. The events, which occurred on September 13 and 20, 2025, are a reminder of the dynamic geological forces at work in the region. As India’s only confirmed active volcano, the island holds significant scientific importance despite posing no immediate threat to human settlements.

India’s Only Active Volcano Stirs

Barren Island, situated approximately 140 kilometers northeast of Port Blair, the capital of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, is part of a volcanic arc that stretches from Sumatra to Myanmar. Its geological activity is a direct result of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates converging, with the Indian Plate subducting beneath the Sunda Plate. This process creates a seismically active environment, leading to both earthquakes and volcanic eruptions.

The recent eruptions were minor, releasing plumes of ash and a gentle flow of lava. Officials have confirmed that the events were not a cause for alarm, as the island is uninhabited and restricted to visitors. The last notable eruption occurred in 2022, and the volcano has a history of sporadic activity since its major reawakening in 1991, after nearly two centuries of dormancy.

The Link to Seismic Activity

According to experts from the National Centre for Seismology, the recent volcanic activity may be linked to a magnitude 4.2 earthquake that struck the region just two days before the September 20 eruption. This seismic event likely disturbed the volcano’s magma chamber, a reservoir of molten rock located deep beneath the surface. The resulting “shaking intensity” can create fractures and release pressure, triggering a “premature magmatic eruption.” This connection between earthquakes and volcanic events is a common feature in tectonically active zones.

A Living Laboratory for Science

Although the island’s name suggests a desolate landscape, Barren Island is a fascinating case study for geologists. The eruptions, even minor ones, provide valuable data for understanding plate tectonics and volcanic processes. Its remote and uninhabited nature allows scientists to monitor the volcano without the risks associated with populated areas. The island’s terrain, characterized by volcanic cones and ash, is a testament to its fiery history.

Due to safety regulations, landing on the island is prohibited. However, controlled boat tours are available, offering a safe distance view of the volcano. The surrounding waters, with their vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life, have also become a popular destination for advanced divers. The volcano’s activity, while a potential hazard, also enriches the marine ecosystem with volcanic minerals.

The ongoing vigilance of the Geological Survey of India and the National Centre for Seismology ensures that this geological sentinel of the Andaman Sea is continuously monitored, providing crucial insights into the Earth’s ever-changing and powerful natural forces.