Non-engineered construction in developing countries

Abstract

The paper first discusses some issues in regard to earthquake risk reduction of Non-engineered buildings, such as: Earthquake risk in developing countries and its management, the IDNDR - Yokoyama message emphasising on pre-disaster mitigation and preparedness, earthquake damage reduction initiatives taken such as preparation of building codes and guidelines and disaster mitigation for sustainable development. Then, the major causes of severe damage observed in non-engineered buildings in the past earthquakes are presently briefly and critical elements to be incorporated in new constructions are highlighted. Methodology for seismic retrofitting of stone houses developed, implemented and verified by the author in the field is introduced. Next, costs and benefits of earthquake prevention measures are indicated. Finally a practically feasible and economically viable scheme of earthquake resistant new building construction and seismic-retrofitting of existing unsafe buildings is outlined.