Volcanic activity can shake the ground. Blasting, quarrying and mining can cause small earthquakes. Underground nuclear explosions are also man made earthquakes. Tremendous amount of energy is released during an earthquake. This can cause widespread damage.
Human dwellings have to be protected from earthquakes.
Collapse of buildings in an earthquake, specially in congested areas, can cause havoc. This adds to the chaotic situation created by an earthquake. It is very important that special structures are protected from the effects of earthquakes. Nuclear power plants, dams, bridges and industrial complexes, which deal with hazardous chemicals, can also be designed to withstand damage from future earthquakes. These special structures are designed and constructed after study of all aspects of earthquake problem at the site.