Making houses for earthquake-prone areas is more about 'software' than 'hardware'. So, even if timber is not easy to come by, there are solutions. Most new constructions were of this kind, which became popular in Uttarkashi region after the construction of the Maneri dam about 30 years ago. The Dehradun-based People's Science Institute has worked on popularising features that make houses stand up better to earthquakes. Such houses must have tie-bands just above the level of the floor, the level of the doors and windows, and another at the roof level, point out Ravi Chopra and Rajesh Kumar of the institute.
Corners are the most vulnerable and ought to be strengthened.
Elasticity of the structure can be enhanced with flexible steel rods or wood batons at corners. Doors and windows should be few, small and symmetrically placed away from the corners. The house should be as light as possible. He says all houses designed or guided by the renowned architect Laurie Baker remained intact even as many others in the vicinity collapsed during the 1999 Chamoli quake. Baker emphasises using local construction material.