Kathmandu. The government has revised and implemented the National Building Code for the construction of earthquake resistant buildings. Provisions in the old code are impractical and inconsistent with international standards, adding complexity to design calculations and unnecessary costs in construction have been amended. The amended National Building Code was published in the Gazette on Thursday and brought into force. The new code will provide guidance for the construction of not only buildings but also underground structures such as dams, powerhouses, tunnels for hydropower projects.

Urban Development Minister Kulman Ghising said that this amended code is a milestone for building a safe future for the country. Minister Ghising expressed his belief that the buildings built according to the new code will minimize the loss of lives and property due to earthquakes that may occur in the future. He urged the local level, engineers and common citizens to strictly implement the code in the construction of new buildings.