Comprehensive Review on Performance-Based Seismic and Resilience Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Buildings in the Himalayan Seismic Region

The Himalayan region is one of the most seismically active zones globally, primarily due to the convergence of the Indian and Eurasian tectonic plates, which poses significant risks to reinforced concrete (RC) buildings. This review synthesizes the existing knowledge on the performance-based seismic assessment and resilience evaluation of RC buildings within the Himalayan seismic context. This study integrates geological characteristics, seismic hazard assessments, design codes, and earthquake damage patterns to analyze the vulnerability of RC structures. Performance-based assessment methodologies, such as pushover analysis, incremental dynamic analysis, and fragility modeling, were evaluated for their applicability to construction in the Himalayan region. This review further explores resilience assessment frameworks that incorporate considerations of damage, recovery, functionality, and socioeconomic impacts. An analysis of the damage from past seismic events, notably the 2015 Gorkha–Nepal earthquake, was conducted to identify deficiencies in design and construction quality. Both conventional and resilience-based retrofitting strategies, including seismic isolation, fiber-reinforced polymer (FRP) strengthening, and external bracing systems, were reviewed for their potential to enhance performance. Emerging technologies such as machine learning, advanced sensing, and structural health monitoring have been identified as tools that can improve seismic assessment and post-earthquake decision-making. This study highlights existing challenges, knowledge gaps, and policy implications, advocating for risk-informed seismic design and the development of region-specific resilience frameworks. This review provides a scientific foundation for enhancing the seismic safety and resilience of RC buildings in the Himalayan region.