In light of the recent 4.0 magnitude earthquake in Delhi NCR, discussions have intensified regarding the resilience of buildings in the region. The question, Are these buildings earthquake-proof? has been on the radar among homebuyers and investors. Due to its proximity to the Himalayan belt, Delhi NCR faces significant seismic risks, leading developers in the region to focus on the construction of earthquake-resistant projects. Developers have taken necessary steps toward making their projects disaster ready. They focus on creating projects that are ductile and have a flexible foundation.
Their primary focus is on implementing structural designs, employing techniques such as concrete frames, shear walls, and architecture to distribute energy throughout the structure in order to withstand seismic forces and reduce the risk of collapse. Earthquake-resistant buildings utilize a variety of techniques based on experimental results, computer simulations, and observations from past earthquakes. Material selection plays a critical role, with high-quality materials like reinforced concrete, steel, and composite materials being preferred for their strength and durability. To mitigate seismic forces, developers are integrating innovative technologies like base isolation systems, shock absorbers, and dampers. Base isolation involves constructing buildings on flexible pads made of steel, rubber, and lead, allowing the isolators to vibrate and absorb seismic waves while the structure remains steady. Dampers, similar to shock absorbers in cars, are placed between columns and beams to reduce the magnitude of shockwaves, with energy being transformed into heat and dissipated.
Adil Altaf, Managing Director, Trinity Infratech said, “As a responsible real estate developer in Gurugram, we will prioritize safety and resilience in our high-rise constructions. Our project will adhere to stringent seismic codes, incorporating earthquake-resistant designs, advanced damping systems, and high-quality construction materials. We will conduct rigorous soil testing, use flexible foundation techniques, and ensure compliance with structural engineering best practices. Additionally, regular safety audits and expert consultations will help us enhance building durability. Our commitment is to create not just aesthetically superior spaces but also structures that offer maximum safety and peace of mind to our residents.”
Developers ensure compliance with the seismic codes of India set by the Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), such as IS. However, these codes should be on par with those of countries like the US and Japan for better implementation. Buildings meet crucial safety standards along with seismic resistant features. Developers are investing heavily in seismic-proof buildings.
Mohit Agarwal, Business Head, Conscient Infrastructure Pvt. Ltd said, “With a growing focus on safety, Gurugram’s real estate sector is adopting advanced structural designs to mitigate earthquake risks. We are integrating seismic-resistant technologies, reinforced foundations, and high-grade materials to enhance building resilience. From shock-absorbing frameworks to smart engineering solutions, the goal is to ensure stability and long-term sustainability in the city’s rapidly evolving skyline.”
The earthquake handling capacity of properties in the city is highly attributed to the modern construction standards implemented by developers. Cities in NCR, including Faridabad and Gurugram, are seeing the development of high-rise buildings that feature the qualities and technologies of an earthquake-proof project. In times of natural disasters like earthquakes, good architecture and infrastructural planning can reduce the disaster impact to a great extent. Developers incorporating these crucial measures can successfully prevent extreme situations that could otherwise result from a disastrous tremor.