Mumbai & Kolkata on path of asteroid nicknamed ‘City Killer’: Reports
The threat of asteroids hitting the Earth is a constant concern for scientists and astronomers around the world. Recently, reports have emerged that two of India’s most populous cities, Mumbai and Kolkata, could be impacted if a massive asteroid, nicknamed the ‘City Killer’, hits Earth in 2032. The asteroid, officially known as 2024 YR4, has been making headlines globally, with its predicted path traversing through several densely populated areas.
According to reports, if the asteroid were to hit Earth, it could trigger “severe blast damage” affecting a radius of approximately 31 miles from the impact site. The estimated strength of the blast is equivalent to a 2,000-megaton nuclear bomb, which would be devastating to any city or region in its path.
The 2024 YR4 asteroid is a relatively large one, measuring around 1,000 feet in diameter. While it is still a significant distance away, scientists are keeping a close eye on its trajectory to better understand its potential impact on our planet.
Mumbai, the financial capital of India, is one of the cities most likely to be affected by the asteroid’s predicted path. With a population of over 12 million people, the city is home to some of the country’s most iconic landmarks, including the Gateway of India and the Haji Ali Dargah. The city’s densely populated areas, such as Lower Parel and Andheri, would be particularly vulnerable to the asteroid’s impact.
Kolkata, on the other hand, is India’s second-most populous city and a major cultural and economic hub. With a population of over 14 million people, the city’s historic districts, such as Park Street and College Street, would be at risk of severe damage if the asteroid were to hit.
However, Mumbai and Kolkata are not the only cities on the asteroid’s predicted path. Bogota, the capital of Colombia, and Lagos, the largest city in Nigeria, are also likely to be impacted if the asteroid were to hit. These cities, like Mumbai and Kolkata, are densely populated and would be at risk of severe damage from the asteroid’s impact.
Scientists believe that the asteroid’s composition is likely to be a mix of rock and metal, which would make it particularly devastating upon impact. The asteroid’s speed is estimated to be around 15 kilometers per second, which would make it a formidable force if it were to hit Earth.
The Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) has been monitoring the asteroid’s trajectory closely, along with other international space agencies. While there is still a significant amount of time before the asteroid is expected to hit Earth, scientists are working tirelessly to better understand its path and potential impact.
In an effort to raise awareness about the potential threat posed by the asteroid, the Indian government has been conducting public awareness campaigns and emergency drills in cities that are likely to be impacted. This includes Mumbai and Kolkata, as well as other cities along the asteroid’s predicted path.
While the threat of the asteroid is very real, scientists are optimistic that it can be mitigated with proper planning and preparation. In the event that the asteroid were to hit Earth, emergency responders and disaster management teams would be responsible for coordinating relief efforts and providing aid to affected populations.
In conclusion, the threat posed by the 2024 YR4 asteroid is a sobering reminder of the potential dangers that exist in our universe. While Mumbai and Kolkata are likely to be impacted if the asteroid were to hit, other cities around the world are also at risk. As scientists and governments work together to better understand the asteroid’s path and potential impact, it is crucial that we remain vigilant and prepared for any eventuality.
