Earthquakes have long been a threat in Nepal, a country located in a seismically active region. The devastating earthquake that struck Nepal in 2015 was a wake-up call for the nation to prioritize earthquake-resistant building practices. The earthquake, measuring 7.8 magnitude, claimed the lives of nearly 9,000 people and caused widespread destruction.
One of the key lessons learned from the 2015 earthquake was the importance of constructing buildings that can withstand seismic forces. The traditional brick and mortar structures in Nepal were particularly vulnerable to the powerful shaking, resulting in their collapse and loss of lives.
Since then, there has been a renewed focus on earthquake-resistant building techniques in Nepal. These techniques involve incorporating design principles and construction practices that can mitigate the impact of earthquakes. Reinforced concrete frames, shear walls, and base isolation systems are some of the strategies used to enhance the resilience of buildings.
The government of Nepal has also taken steps to promote earthquake-resistant building practices. Building codes and regulations have been updated to include seismic design provisions. In addition, awareness campaigns have been launched to educate architects, engineers, and builders about the importance of incorporating earthquake-resistant features in their designs.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain in implementing earthquake-resistant building practices throughout the country. Limited resources, lack of technical expertise, and cultural barriers pose obstacles to widespread adoption. However, organizations like Build Change and the National Society for Earthquake Technology-Nepal are actively working to address these challenges.
It is crucial for Nepal to continue investing in earthquake-resistant building practices. As a nation prone to earthquakes, the safety of its people and infrastructure depends on it. By incorporating earthquake-resistant features in new constructions and retrofitting existing buildings, Nepal can better prepare itself for future seismic events.
