1990: Manjil–Rudbar Earthquake, Iran — A Tragedy That Shook

On June 21, 1990, a 7.4 Mw earthquake struck northern Iran, resulting in between 35,000 to 50,000 deaths and 60,000 to 105,000 injuries. The earthquake, which occurred at 00:30:14 local time, destroyed an area of 20,000 km2, including several major cities. The effects of the earthquake are still felt today, both physically and socially.

Devastating Earthquake in Northern Iran: June 21, 1990 \ On June 21, 1990, at 00:30:14 local time, a devastating earthquake struck northern Iran, particularly in the areas of Manjil and Rudbar. This earthquake, with a magnitude of 7.4 Mw, caused extensive damage and an uncountable loss of life. The most affected areas covered 20,000 km2, with major cities such as Manjil, Rudbar, and Sari suffering severe damage. \ In addition to the main earthquake, the area was also shaken by several aftershocks that further increased the destruction. One of the significant aftershocks had a substantial impact, increasing the number of casualties and injuries. \ ## Geological Background and Historical Context \ Northern Iran, especially along the Caspian Sea coast, is one of the most active earthquake zones. This is due to tectonic plate movements occurring in the region. The Manjil–Rudbar earthquake was not the first, but it was one of the most devastating in Iranian history. \ At that time, Iran was facing various economic and political challenges. The earthquake came at a very sensitive time, as the country was still recovering from the Iran-Iraq War (1980-1988). This situation required joint efforts from the government, society, and international agencies to deal with the disaster. \ ## Involved Figures and Rescue Efforts \ In addition to ordinary citizens who were victims, important figures were involved in rescue efforts. The then Iranian President, Ali Akbar Hashemi Rafsanjani, immediately ordered the government to take immediate action. The Iranian government also requested assistance from neighboring countries and international agencies such as the Red Crescent and the United Nations (UN). \ Rescue efforts involved thousands of aid workers, pilots, and rescue teams. They worked together to search for victims, provide medical assistance, and rebuild the destroyed infrastructure. Although these efforts received broad support, lack of resources and logistics hindered them from achieving better results. \ ## Effects and Legacy of the Manjil–Rudbar Earthquake \ The effects of this earthquake are still felt today. Physically, many buildings and infrastructures have been destroyed or severely damaged. The reconstruction process took years, and some areas are still not fully recovered. \ Socially, the earthquake left deep wounds in the hearts of the Iranian people. Thousands of families lost their family members and homes, and this trauma remains. However, the disaster also prompted the government and society to be more prepared for natural disasters. \ Lessons learned from the Manjil–Rudbar earthquake have led to improvements in earthquake monitoring, construction of more earthquake-resistant structures, and disaster preparedness training. These initiatives aim to reduce the risks and impacts of natural disasters in the future. \ The Manjil–Rudbar earthquake was not only a tragic event, but also a turning point for recovery and better preparedness efforts. It reminds us of the importance of international cooperation and the need to always be ready to face natural threats.