Summary
A significant portion of Lahore's heritage structures, including UNESCO World Heritage Sites like Shalamar Gardens and Lahore Fort, are vulnerable to ground-borne vibrations from modern infrastructure development. This study reveals that 17% of these structures face immediate risk, with road traffic being the predominant source (72%) of vibrational impact. Researchers employed a vibration vulnerability assessment framework from the Federal Transit Administration (FTA) to map risks using remote surveys and Google Earth data, validating findings experimentally at Buddha's Tomb. The resulting vibration vulnerability map provides actionable insights for policymakers to prioritize conservation efforts, ensuring sustainable preservation of these cultural landmarks.
Citation
Azam, R., Riaz, M. R., & Javaid, M. F. (2024). Vibration vulnerability assessment of heritage structures in Lahore: a step towards sustainable conservation. Built Heritage, 8(1). https://doi.org/10.1186/s43238-024-00163-y