A recent minor tremor in St Andrew has prompted a critical re-evaluation of Jamaica’s construction standards and the safety of its expanding urban landscape. Authorities are raising alarms over risky development on unstable terrains, such as steep hillsides and gullies, where seismic activity poses the greatest threat to structural integrity. The Kingston and St Andrew Municipal Corporation is actively encouraging citizens to report illegal building practices to help mitigate the long-term dangers associated with unregulated housing. This push for stricter regulatory compliance aims to move away from informal construction methods that often bypass essential engineering and architectural oversight. Ultimately, the report emphasizes that national resilience depends on adhering to rigorous codes to ensure properties can withstand the environmental pressures of an active seismic zone.
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