Barren Island Volcano

What it signifies?

India's sole active volcano and the only verified active volcano in South Asia.

A deserted island featuring jagged volcanic peaks, layers of ash, and minimal plant life.

Situated in:

Located in the Andaman Sea, approximately 138 km northeast of Port Blair.

A component of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands, situated in the Indian Union Territory.

Origin:

Is part of a volcanic region created at the converging boundary of the Indian and Burmese tectonic plates.

Geological history: The oldest lava flows date back to approximately 1.6 million years, originating on an oceanic crust that is around 106 million years old.

Characteristics:

Dimensions: The island covers approximately 3 square kilometers and reaches an elevation of 354 meters above sea level.

Structure: Comprises a caldera 2 km wide created by the collapse of a previous volcanic cone.

Eruption history: Initially in 1787, succeeded by several events (1991, 2005–07, 2017, 2022, 2025).

Activity type: Low Volcanic Explosivity Index (VEI 2), gentle lava flows and ash plumes.

Ecology: Rugged landscape; previous eruptions diminished local avian and animal diversity.

Importance:

Geological significance – The sole active land volcano located between Sumatra and Myanmar.

Scientific inquiry – Aids in examining plate tectonics, volcanology, and the development of oceanic crust.

Key position – Boosts India’s maritime importance in the Andaman Sea.