Modified Rapid Visual Screening Approach Highlights Seismic Vulnerability in Dir City, Pakistan

A recent study published in the Journal of Dynamic Disasters has shed light on the seismic vulnerability of buildings in Dir City, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, Pakistan, using a modified rapid visual screening (RVS) approach. The research, which assessed a hundred randomly selected buildings, found that the majority of structures in the area are non-engineered, old, and built by local masons, placing them at high risk during seismic events.

The study, detailed in the article with DOI:10.1016/j.jdd.2025.100018, utilized a modified Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) data collection form to evaluate buildings of diverse structural configurations, including unreinforced masonry, confined masonry, stone masonry, and reinforced concrete frames with unreinforced masonry infill. The findings underscore the urgent need for measures to enhance the seismic resilience of Dir City's infrastructure.

First author Khan Shahzada emphasized the importance of enforcing stricter regulations, retrofitting vulnerable structures, and fostering community engagement to build a culture of preparedness. Recommendations from the study include ensuring new buildings adhere to engineering design standards, prioritizing the retrofitting of older, non-engineered buildings, and implementing regular inspections to verify compliance with seismic safety standards.

Furthermore, the study advocates for educating residents on seismic resilience, offering financial incentives for retrofitting, and developing comprehensive plans that include early warning systems and earthquake drills. The involvement of local stakeholders in applying research findings is also highlighted as a critical step toward improving the seismic safety of Dir City's infrastructure.

This research not only provides valuable insights into the seismic vulnerability of buildings in high-risk areas like Dir City but also offers actionable recommendations to mitigate risks and enhance preparedness, serving as a model for similar regions worldwide.