Provisions for Earthquake Resistant Construction

An earthquake is the vibration, sometimes violent to the earth¿s surface that follows a release of energy in the earth¿s crust. This energy can be generated by a sudden dislocation of segments of the crust, by a volcanic eruption or even by a manmade explosion. The dislocation of the crust causes most destructive earthquakes. The crust may first bend and then the stresses exceed the strength of rocks, they break. In the process of breaking,vibrations called seismic waves are generated. These waves travel outward from the source ofthe earthquake along the surface and through the earth at varying speeds depending on thematerial through which they move. These waves can cause disasters on the earth¿s surface.No structure on the planet can be constructed 100% earthquake proof; only its resistance toearthquake can be increased. Treatment is required to be given depending on the zone inwhich the particular site is located. Earthquake occurred in the recent past have raised variousissues and have forced us to think about the disaster management. It has become essential tothink right from planning stage to completion stage of a structure to avoid failure or tominimize the loss of property.