Can new buildings withstand an earthquake? Tajik authorities reinspect high-rises after recent tremors

Tajikistan's authorities have again asserted that new buildings meet earthquake resistance standards, a declaration made after recent tremors prompted renewed scrutiny. However, the same inspection revealed thousands of construction violations, leading to fines for several companies involved in building projects.

The reinspection process underscores persistent concerns regarding the quality of construction and adherence to safety regulations in the country. Despite official assurances, the discovery of numerous violations suggests that the integrity of many new high-rises may still be compromised, posing potential risks during seismic activity.

Officials acknowledged the widespread issues and took action by fining implicated construction firms. This move signals an attempt to address the identified shortcomings and enforce compliance with building codes. The situation highlights a critical balance between rapid development and ensuring the safety and resilience of infrastructure in a seismically active region.