Sun Oct 19 13:22:28 UTC 2025: Here’s a summary of the text, followed by a news article based on that information:
Summary:
The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has analyzed samples from India’s only active mud volcano at Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. The samples are dated to the Oligocene epoch, approximately 23 million years ago. The eruption site has significantly expanded, and the GSI observed oily sheens on the mud. The eruption is likely due to a combination of geological processes, including pressure from sediment layers and tectonic activity. The GSI has recommended restricting public access to the site due to the unpredictable nature of mud volcano eruptions and has suggested constructing a designated viewpoint.
News Article:
Ancient Mud Volcano Erupts with Clues to Earth’s Past, say Geologists
Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar Islands – October 19, 2025 – India’s only active mud volcano, located on Baratang Island in the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, continues to fascinate scientists. The Geological Survey of India (GSI) has announced that samples collected from the site have been dated to the Oligocene epoch, a period approximately 23 million years ago.
According to a statement from GSI Deputy Director General Santanu Bhattacharjee, the lithoclasts ejected from the volcano are composed of sandstone and shale from the Mithakari Group, a geological formation dating back to the Oligocene. This period saw significant shifts on Earth, including the expansion of grasslands and the evolution of early mammals like elephants, cats, and dogs.
The recent activity, observed on October 2, prompted the GSI to conduct further analysis. Researchers found that the eruption site has dramatically increased in size, now covering around 500 square meters, compared to the previously recorded 100 square meters. The central vent stands approximately 2 meters high.
The mud emanating from the volcano is weakly alkaline, with a pH between 8.0 and 8.3, and surface temperatures ranging from 29.3°C to 30.07°C. An unusual oily, blackish sheen has also been observed on the surface of the mud at several vents.
Mr. Bhattacharjee explained that the eruption is likely the result of a complex interplay of geological processes. These may include pressure from sediment layers, tectonic compression, and the generation of hydrocarbons deep underground.
Given the unpredictable nature of mud volcano eruptions, the GSI has advised the Andaman and Nicobar administration to restrict public access to the area. The organization has recommended reinforcing existing fencing, installing hazard warning signs, and constructing a designated viewpoint to allow the public to safely observe the natural wonder.
“It is crucial to maintain a safe distance between visitors and the vent clusters due to the potential for violent mud eruptions,” Mr. Bhattacharjee stated.
The findings from the Baratang mud volcano provide valuable insights into the geological history of the region and the complex forces shaping our planet.
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