INTRODUCTION

Several structures around the country have been designed based on the earlier prevailing codes of practice, which have undergone major revisions over the years. Also, many of them have undergone damage and deterioration due to multiple reasons during the service life which include (but not limited to) change in building usage leading to different load requirement (or enhanced load acting on the structure), construction or design defects, updation of the design standards, seismic events, fire incidents, corrosion ageing of the structure, and lack of inspection and maintenance. One of the primary reasons which cause extensive damage to the structure is the occurrence of earthquake events.

The recent earthquakes across the globe and the extensive devastation caused by them have left everyone in shock. Number of moderate to high intensity tremors have also been experienced in different parts of our country over the last 6 to 8 months. They are one of the most unpredictable hazards.

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