Aftermath and Distress of Earthquake in Lucknow

Earthquake is most unpredictable and destructive natural disaster. It causes damage to infrastructure, settlements, transport and communication networks as well as loss of life and leaves people shattered and distressed. On 25 April 2015 earthquake tremors jolted the city of Lucknow at the intensity of 7.1 Richter scale, leaving the people shocked and compel to stand in open places for hours. The present study attempts to explore the understanding of earthquake and the amount of psychological distress it causes. A random sample of 90 residents in three age groups from the multistory buildings, and crowded areas of Lucknow served as the sample. They were assessed on Kessler Psychological Distress Scale and an interview schedule. The results found gender difference on psychological distress but no significant difference was found across the different age groups.