A recent study published in the Journal of Dynamic Disasters has shed light on the seismic vulnerability of buildings in Dir City, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using a modified rapid visual screening (RVS) approach. The research, detailed in a study (DOI:10.1016/j.jdd.2025.100018), assessed a hundred randomly selected buildings, uncovering a pressing need for seismic resilience improvements in the region. Dir City's buildings, predominantly non-engineered and constructed by local masons, fall within Seismic Zone III according to the Building Code of Pakistan. The study's lead author, Khan Shahzada, emphasized the diversity in structural configurations, including unreinforced masonry, confined masonry, stone masonry, and reinforced concrete frames with unreinforced masonry infill.
The modified RVS approach, based on a Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data collection form, utilized positive and negative score modifiers to evaluate seismic resistance, with low scores indicating a need for expert examination. The findings underscore the urgency of addressing seismic risks in Dir City. Recommendations include enforcing stricter building regulations, retrofitting vulnerable structures, and fostering community engagement to cultivate a culture of preparedness. Specific actions proposed prioritize the adherence to engineering design standards for new buildings, especially those on slopes, and the retrofitting of older, non-engineered structures.
Additionally, the study advocates for regular inspections, public education on seismic resilience, and financial incentives for building owners to invest in structural improvements. Further measures suggested involve creating comprehensive disaster preparedness plans that incorporate early warning systems and earthquake drills, alongside strengthening critical infrastructure. The study also calls for expanded research into retrofitting methods and the exploration of modern technologies like seismic isolation systems to enhance building resilience. Engaging local stakeholders in applying research findings is highlighted as a key step toward improving the seismic safety of Dir City's infrastructure.
This study not only highlights the immediate need for action in Dir City but also serves as a model for assessing and addressing seismic vulnerability in similar high-risk areas worldwide. The implications of this announcement are significant, as it identifies a critical gap in building safety that could lead to catastrophic outcomes during earthquakes, emphasizing the importance of proactive measures to protect communities and infrastructure in earthquake-prone regions.
