Amid frequent quakes, Meghalaya Minister says follow building norms

Minister in Charge of Disaster Management, Kyrmen Shylla, said that steps are being taken to ensure safety of old and new buildings

Amid frequent quakes hitting Meghalaya and the northeastern region and the fact that the state lies in Seismic Zone 5 (quake prone area), Meghalaya Minister in Charge of Disaster Management, Kyrmen Shylla on Thursday urged citizens to adhere to building by-laws, stay alert and inform the authorities regarding old buildings and construction that might be prone to damage because of a quake.

“There are the building by-laws. High-rise buildings are not allowed because Meghalaya is in a high Seismic Zone. If high-rises are to be built, then it has to be in accordance with what the engineers say about the structure etc. As far as the old buildings are concerned the department is monitoring the health of the buildings. Building norms have to followed to avoid any disaster and loss of lives,” Minister Shylla said.

The minister further said that with regard to old building if the people need a survey to be done regarding the safety of the building, then they can approach the Disaster Management Department and the officials would conduct a survey regarding the health of the building.

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