Why are Kathmandu Valley houses collapsing?
Summary
A two-and-a-half storey concrete house collapsed in Dhapakhel, Lalitpur after prolonged rainfall triggered a landslide, raising fresh concerns about construction quality and unsafe building practices in Kathmandu Valley. Experts say rapid urbanization, weak soil testing and poor enforcement of standards are leaving many houses vulnerable.
Key Points
- A concrete house in Dhapakhel, Lalitpur collapsed after a landslide weakened the slope beneath it, though three residents had been evacuated earlier and no casualties were reported.
- Nearly two dozen concrete houses have reportedly collapsed from their foundations across Kathmandu Valley over the past year, with similar incidents reported in several areas.
- Experts say poor geological studies, weak construction standards and rapid urbanization are increasing the risk of structural failures on slopes and unstable ground.
- The incident has renewed calls for stricter monitoring, earthquake-resistant construction and better urban planning across Kathmandu Valley.
