Earthquake reconstruction lessons from Iran

Abstract

This paper discusses the lessons learned from the earthquake reconstruction in Ahar-Varzaghan, East Azarbaijan, Iran. Following the rescue and relief operations, the construction of emergency shelters and temporary housing, a reconstruction plan for residential houses in the rural areas was prepared. On the basis of the previous Iranian experience of earthquake reconstruction, especially in the Bam earthquake, new lessons were found which are highlighted here. This experience and lessons could be useful for other governments and agencies in future reconstructions.