SANTO DOMINGO.– The Minister of Housing, Habitat and Buildings (MIVHED), Víctor –Ito– Bisonó, stated this Tuesday that the institution is working on updating the seismic code and strengthening construction standards, with the aim of reducing the vulnerability of buildings to possible earthquakes.
He noted that the recent seismic events recorded in countries of the region should serve as a wake-up call for those developing infrastructure in the Dominican Republic, especially regarding the importance of complying with the laws and procedures established to ensure the safety of constructions.
“The first thing is that what has unfortunately happened in Venezuela, in Colombia, and the example we have had in the Dominican Republic is a wake-up call for those who are developing infrastructure to comply with the law,” he said.
The official emphasized that the evaluation, inspection, and permitting processes are not arbitrary decisions by the authorities, but rather necessary measures to prevent unfortunate situations in the event of natural phenomena.
"We must submit to evaluation, inspection, procedures and rules to avoid regrettable situations," he stated.
New seismic code is under consultation
The head of MIVHED reported that a new seismic code is currently under consultation, while a new construction code has already been approved.
He explained that the authorities are working to make the processes more rigorous and ensure that buildings submitted for evaluation and licensing comply with the provisions established in Dominican legislation.
Commitment due to seismic threat
Architect Iliana López Gallardo, director of Standards and Regulations for the entity and a specialist in seismic matters, explained that the institution assumed the commitment to carry out a seismic hazard study, the results of which are part of the process of updating the construction regulations.
The expert clarified that there is no absolute guarantee that a building can withstand all the effects of an earthquake. However, she asserted that compliance with building codes significantly reduces the vulnerability of structures.
“The standard reduces the vulnerability of buildings, and all buildings that submit their permits are considered formal and prepared, as much as possible, to respond to a seismic event,” he explained.
He also argued that the country cannot eliminate the threat posed by earthquakes, but it can adopt measures aimed at reducing their potential consequences.
“As a country, we cannot eliminate the threat; we can reduce it. Our commitment is to continue strengthening mechanisms like these,” he emphasized.
