Venezuelan reconstruction technically feasible but needs seismic compliance, says Japanese engineer

Japanese structural engineer Kit Miyamoto, renowned for his work in earthquake-affected cities worldwide, believes Venezuela possesses the technical expertise to rebuild following the June 24 earthquakes. However, he stressed that the success of this reconstruction hinges on stricter construction oversight and compliance with seismic-resistant building codes.

Miyamoto arrived in Venezuela as part of an international technical assistance mission to assess earthquake damage, particularly in La Guaira state. He inspected damaged buildings and analyzed soil conditions to understand the factors contributing to the extensive destruction.

“

This is one of the worst disasters that I have seen in the last 20 years.

With experience from emergencies in Japan, Turkey, China, Italy, and Mexico, Miyamoto described the Venezuelan tragedy as one of the most serious disasters he has encountered in the past two decades. He observed deficiencies in the placement of reinforcing steel in concrete, especially in columns and foundations, where bars lacked the required depth for adequate structural performance during seismic events.

"It is very important that the inspection is done by engineers," Miyamoto stated. He emphasized that permanent technical supervision is crucial for reducing building vulnerability, noting that such errors are not unique to Venezuela and have been seen in other earthquake-affected countries.

“

It is very important that the inspection is done by engineers.

Miyamoto also pointed to the composition of the subsoil in La Guaira as a contributing factor to the damage. He explained that soft soils amplify seismic waves, increasing the movement buildings experience during an earthquake, a phenomenon similar to what occurred in Mexico City in 1985 and 2017. Despite these conditions, he dismissed them as impediments to future urban development, asserting, "Venezuela has the experience and technology. The important thing is to do it correctly."

As part of the recovery process, Miyamoto announced a collaboration with about a hundred Venezuelan professionals on a program to inspect affected homes using a technological platform for damage registration and reconstruction planning.

“

Venezuela has the experience and technology. The important thing is to do it correctly.