In spite of mankind’s triumph in taming nature for his survival and benefit, succumbing to the vagaries of nature has become a regular global concern. Out of the array of different catastrophes, earthquakes and cyclones together are responsible for an overwhelming majority of the global damages caused by natural disasters in the last decade, leaving millions homeless. The loss of property and life are primarily due to failure of structures to withstand such catastrophes, caused often due to lack of implementation of a few guidelines. The evolution of these guidelines is rooted in understanding the principles of the mechanics that regulate the behaviour of the structures under lateral dynamic loading imparted by earthquakes and cyclones.
In this context, Improving Earthquake and Cyclone Resistance of Structures: guidelines for the Indian subcontinent, is an attempt to introduce guidelines for the types of building structures frequently observed and built in the Indian subcontinent as well as in other developing countries. The guidelines are meant for both architectural and structural features, and include constructional aspects as well. The book introduces these guidelines in such a manner that all aspects can be properly understood, related, and implemented by practising engineers and architects. On the whole, the book may help develop awareness and sensitized technical manpower for combating the threats posed by natural disasters like earthquakes and cyclones.

Table of Contents:
Introduction SECTION 1 EARTHQUAKES • Occurrence of earthquake: a geological perspective • Performance of a building during earthquakes: the philosophy • Typical moderate earthquakes: lessons learnt from case studies • Guidelines for brick masonry buildings • Guidelines for ductile detailing of reinforced concrete buildings • Guidelines for elevated tanks and dams lifeline structures • Quantification of seismic design forces SECTION 2 CYCLONES • Occurrence of tropical cyclones: the North Indian Ocean • Performance of buildings during cyclones: the philosophy Sidr-affected non-engineered buildings: lessons learnt from case studies • Cyclone-resistant buildings: general guidelines SECTION 3 REMEDIAL MEASURES • Rapid Visual Screening • Retrofitting buildings Selected bibliography