Probabilistic Format for Seismic Risk Analysis of RC Buildings in the Indian Context

As more and more emphasis is being laid on nonlinear analysis of Reinforced Concrete (RC)-framed structures subjected to earthquake excitation, the research and development on both nonlinear static (pushover) analysis as well as nonlinear dynamic (time history) analysis are in the forefront. Due to prohibitive computational time and efforts required to perform a complete nonlinear dynamic analysis, researchers and designers all over the world are showing keen interest in nonlinear static pushover analysis. The paper presents the overview of seismic provisions in Indian seismic codes published by the Bureau of Indian Standards with regard to seismic analysis and design. Since the country lies in earthquake-prone area and many of the past earthquakes have high number of casualties due to collapse of buildings and dwellings, an attempt has been made to present the complete details of methodology in a probabilistic manner to assess the seismic risk of RC buildings based on pushover analysis due to nonexistence/availability of code practices in the Indian context. Thus, the format may be used as a guideline for seismic risk analysis.