The challenges of protecting heritage architecture in developing countries from earthquake disasters

摘要

This paper attempts to highlight the challenge of protecting the heritage architecture in developing countries through examples of Nepal and Peru where valuable world heritage sites in opposite parts of the globe face a common threat owing to earthquakes. The nature of the earthquake hazard in both of the countries is discussed in some detail and the importance of actions towards the protection of heritage architecture is emphasized. It is noted that the state of general disrepair adds to the seismic vulnerability of heritage architecture in developing countries. Besides, the repair after actual damage or destruction from earthquakes, even when timely undertaken, may lead to alteration of the valuable originality of heritage structures, owing to the unavailability of material or skill from the time of the original constructions. The need for initiatives towards preventive actions for protection from damage and prevention of collapse due to earthquake disasters appears quite evident.