A Comparative Analysis of an RC Low-Rise Building with the Seismic Codes of Countries Lying in the Himalayas: China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan

Abstract The Himalayan region is one of the most seismically active areas in the world due to its tectonic setting. This study investigates the seismic performance of a reinforced concrete (RC) low-rise building using the seismic codes of countries situated along the Himalayan belt: China, India, Nepal, and Pakistan. This study begins by reviewing the development of seismic codes in these countries. Subsequently, a prototype RC low-rise building was analyzed using finite element software, employing the linear static method of analysis according to each country's seismic codes. This study focused on key seismic responses, including the fundamental period, base shear, displacement, and story drift. The analysis revealed significant differences in seismic responses among the codes. Notably, the Chinese seismic code resulted in the highest values for the parameters studied, followed by the Nepalese, Pakistani, and Indian codes.