Earthquake-resistant confined masonry construction

The vulnerability of Indian constructions has been amply demonstrated by the recent damaging earthquakes. These include not only the non-engineered constructions carried out by the common man, but also many “engineered” buildings. Construction typologies differ from place to place for various reasons, including availability of local materials and skills, climatic conditions, living habits and traditions. There have been successful interventions in the Indian sub-continent towards introducing construction typologies that resists earthquakes better. One could combine these building elements into a rational structural system of “confined masonry” which will have far better earthquake performance. It is hoped that this monograph will help sensitizing and educating the building professionals in India and elsewhere about the excellent features of confined masonry.