Defining a safe design distance from tectonic structures in urban and regional planning

Abstract

This study proposed the neotectonics application to urban and regional planning in order to identify high-risk areas by determining fault-related impact zones. This problem requires urgent attention and prompt action because of recent rapid urbanization. As neotectonics can recognize active-seismic faults and associated changes in relief, it can be used to identify areas where natural geological disasters (earthquakes or displacement fractures) are most likely to occur. Seismic activity was studied using neotectonic mapping techniques, empirical equations related to earthquake magnitude and fault length, deterministic seismic hazard assessment based on GIS analysis, and thematic maps showing both areas suitable for human use and exclusion zones in which predicted horizontal acceleration values exceed seismicity thresholds. The main objectives of this study were to minimize the socioeconomic impacts and loss of life associated with seismic activity, to encourage urban development in areas that safeguard life and property, and to improve the safety of existing cities by applying protective measures. Northwestern Greece was selected as an appropriate study area because of the presence of active faults. Large strike-slip faults found in the region could cause significant earthquakes and major disasters, as exemplified by similar fault activations such as the San Andreas Fault in USA. © 2019 Elsevier Ltd