Uzbekistan approves new measures to improve seismic resistance of buildings and structures

The government has adopted a resolution “On additional measures to improve the seismic resistance of buildings and structures.”

Under the resolution, by 1 October 2027, types of facilities that must be prioritised for design using special seismic protection equipment in seismic zones of 8 points and above on the MSK-64 scale will be approved.

Beginning 1 December 2025, the use of regional accelerograms, which reflect the strength of local earthquakes, will be introduced into the design process.

By 1 October 2027, the list of facility types that will receive design priority in areas with seismic activity of 8 points and above on the MSK-64 scale will be finalized.

New construction facilities classified under hazard categories III–IV must be equipped with automated monitoring devices for load-bearing structures. For facilities in hazard categories III–IV, design and construction must be carried out on the basis of regional accelerograms.

The document also approves a list of areas with seismic activity of 8 points and above on the MSK-64 scale:

• Andijan – 9 points;
• Tashkent, Bukhara, Namangan, Nurafshon, Fergana – 8–9 points;
• Jizzakh, Navoi, Samarkand, Gulistan, Karshi – 8 points;
• Termez – 7–8 points.

The Ministry of Construction and other responsible bodies must, by the end of 2026, develop a design for experimental buildings that will employ special seismic protection systems. Companies with foreign expertise will be involved, and participation of local specialists will be ensured.

Following this stage, the building must be constructed and tested by June 2027, with local specialists taking part in construction and installation works.

Starting from 1 February 2026:

• The fee for obtaining scientific expertise on seismic resistance will be reduced by 50%;
• Facilities belonging to the same series will receive a single scientific assessment, and subsequent similar facilities will be issued conclusions free of charge.

Scientific assessments on seismic resistance will be integrated into the “Shaffof qurilish” national information system.