Dhajji wall is a traditional building technique used in earthquake prone areas of Pakistan and India. It comprises a timber frame structure with stone masonry infill that is plastered or left exposed. This technique is highly earthquake resistant and uses local materials. It is more popular than conventional reinforced construction in the regions. Windows and doors weaken the structure, so it is best to have few and small openings, avoid placing them all in one wall, and keep them set back from corners.

1. Dhajji Wall
SHIVANG MADAAN, 42
CHARANKAMALPREET SINGH, 71

2. In the ancient language of
carpet weavers, the Old
Farsi word ‘Dhajji’ was
used to describe patchwork
quilts. Because of its visual
similarity, the same term
was applied to this
traditional building
technique.
Word Root

3. • ‘Dhajji Dewari’ is a traditional building type found in the Himalayan belt of Pakistan
and Jammu and Kashmir in India.
• It is quite prevalent in the earthquake prone areas of Jammu and Kashmir. Compared
to conventional reinforced construction, ‘Dhajji’ construction is more popular.
• This walling system comprises timber bracing with an infill of stone masonry that is
mud plastered or left exposed.
• It is highly resistant to earthquakes and uses local materials.
• The Germans and United Kingdom have used Fachwerk construction, which
resembles the constructions listed above.
History

4. Terminology

5. Some Points to Consider
• Windows and doors are weak points. make as few as possible.
• Smaller windows are better than big ones.
• Avoid placing all windows and doors in the same wall.
• Keep windows and doors at least 2 ft from the corners.
• Verandas should not be deeper than 1/3 of the depth of the building.
• Verandas placed in the middle of the building are better.

6. • These diagrams describe how the
strength of a ‘dhajji wall’ changes
depending upon the openings in
it.
• All the diagrams with ‘no’ written
on them are the ones which have
less strength.