Project to prepare cities for earthquake

This refers to the news report, “New scheme to protect 4 cities from earthquake: WB to fund 96pc of Tk 1,381cr project”. I am relieved that such an initiative has been taken at a time when people of the country feel helpless as they consider themselves unprepared to face a devastating earthquake.  

I would like to suggest that building construction rules may restrict the height of the buildings depending on the severity of earthquake factor in the zone. The authority concerned should identify unsafe buildings with old structures and poor quality construction. We welcome the timely move and look forward to the implementation of the project.

M. B. Huda
Former chief architect 
Ministry of Public Construction & National Housing 
Government of Zimbabwe