A new open-access study examines why buildings in Mandalay and Sagaing failed during the March 2025 earthquake, combining field inspections with structural modelling of six damaged structures: four reinforced concrete buildings, a masonry building and a temple. It identifies three main failure types: buildings overturning, failure where beams and columns meet, and complete collapse. The main causes were inadequate seismic detailing, insufficient reinforcement at joints, poor construction quality and non-compliance with the building code. Older unreinforced masonry structures such as temples were the most vulnerable. The study recommends practical measures, including proper seismic detailing, stronger joint reinforcement, retrofitting and reinforced masonry. These are relevant to anyone involved in reconstruction, shelter or infrastructure.

Published in The Scientific World Journal (open access).