Question 4893

The traditional 'Dhajji Diwari' construction technique, which uses timber frames with stone or brick infill for seismic safety, is indigenous to which region?

Answer

Jammu & Kashmir

Why?

The correct answer is - Jammu & Kashmir Key Points India has developed several indigenous construction techniques to mitigate the impact of earthquakes in high-risk zones. Dhajji Diwari is a traditional building style found in Jammu & Kashmir and parts of the Himalayas. The technique involves a timber frame subdivided into smaller panels, which are then filled with stone or brick masonry using lime or mud mortar. The primary advantage of Dhajji Diwari is its flexibility ; during an earthquake, the timber frame allows the structure to dissipate energy without collapsing, unlike rigid modern concrete structures. Additional Information Other indigenous techniques include Bhongas in the Kutch region of Gujarat, which are circular mud houses designed to resist lateral forces. In Assam , bamboo is widely used due to its high strength-to-weight ratio and elasticity, making it ideal for the high-seismic Northeastern states. Modern disaster management increasingly looks toward traditional knowledge to supplement modern engineering for cost-effective and culturally appropriate mitigation.