Mechanism Solution of Nepal-Bihar Eartbquake of August 20, 1988

This paper presents the focal mechanism solution of the Nepal·Bihar earthquake of August 20, 1988. Use was made of the first motions of P waves and polarization (or first motions) of S waves. The mechanism solution is characterized by a predominent component of strike-slip faulting. The deduced orientation of the axis of compression is nearly north·south. This orientation of the axis of compression is in agreement with the axis of compression deduced from the mechanism studies for Himalayan earthquakes.