<p>Dry-stone construction, common in seismically active regions of northern India, remains structurally vulnerable due to its lack of mechanical connectivity. This study assesses the seismic performance of traditional dry-stone buildings in northern India through a survey and RFEM (Räumliches Finite Element Modul) based modal and pushover analysis. The survey identified resilient and vulnerable elements, particularly the flexible roof structure, which was found to be highly susceptible to seismic forces. Based on these findings, several strengthening strategies were developed, with timber cross-bracing integrated into the roof framework as a key measure. Comparison between models with and without timber cross-bracing reveals that bracing significantly reduces high-stress and high-strain zones by over 70%, improves deformation control, and confines rotational displacement. The pushover curve highlights the limited deformation capacity of unbraced structures, with a sudden collapse point indicating poor ductility. Concentrated damage around wall openings and gable regions further emphasizes the need for targeted retrofitting. Based on these findings, a practical strengthening measure—timber cross-bracing integrated within the roof framework has been proposed to improve seismic performance. This solution is low-cost, culturally compatible, and capable of enhancing structural resilience while preserving the architectural heritage of dry-stone buildings.</p>

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Preserving earthquake-vulnerable dry-stone buildings in northern India

  • Rajneesh Sharma,
  • S. K. Nagar,
  • A. K. Dwivedi

摘要

Dry-stone construction, common in seismically active regions of northern India, remains structurally vulnerable due to its lack of mechanical connectivity. This study assesses the seismic performance of traditional dry-stone buildings in northern India through a survey and RFEM (Räumliches Finite Element Modul) based modal and pushover analysis. The survey identified resilient and vulnerable elements, particularly the flexible roof structure, which was found to be highly susceptible to seismic forces. Based on these findings, several strengthening strategies were developed, with timber cross-bracing integrated into the roof framework as a key measure. Comparison between models with and without timber cross-bracing reveals that bracing significantly reduces high-stress and high-strain zones by over 70%, improves deformation control, and confines rotational displacement. The pushover curve highlights the limited deformation capacity of unbraced structures, with a sudden collapse point indicating poor ductility. Concentrated damage around wall openings and gable regions further emphasizes the need for targeted retrofitting. Based on these findings, a practical strengthening measure—timber cross-bracing integrated within the roof framework has been proposed to improve seismic performance. This solution is low-cost, culturally compatible, and capable of enhancing structural resilience while preserving the architectural heritage of dry-stone buildings.