M 6.7, 4 January 2016 Imphal earthquake: Dismal performance of publicly-funded buildings

Abstract

The M 6.7 Imphal Earthquake of 4 January 2016 caused devastation in Manipur state and adjoining areas. This event presented another opportunity to understand the earthquake risk of the affected region as well as of the North-Eastern Himalayan region, which have similar patterns of seismicity, built environment and construction practices. Many dramatic collapses and damages, especially to publicly-funded buildings were disproportionate to the observed intensity of shaking. This was primarily due to poor compliance with seismic codes, inferior quality of raw materials and shoddy workmanship. Consequently, the seismic risk in the region is growing at an alarming pace with increasing inventory of vulnerable construction. This article discusses seismic performance of three publicly-funded buildings in the recent earthquake and highlights the vulnerability of such inventories along with the below par preparedness of the government agencies in dealing with such calamities. This event should be regarded as a preview of what is likely to happen in the event of a greater shaking expected for the region and should hasten the community to take necessary steps to identify seismic vulnerabilities and improve construction practices through effective intervention.