Earthquake sparks debate about construction standards

TIRANA, April.17 – An earthquake measuring a preliminary magnitude of 4 shook central Albania, sparking panic among the population who feared aftershocks, the Seismological Institute said Monday. The quake occurred at 9:38 a.m. (0738GMT) Monday in Bene village, Elbasan district, 55 kilometers (34 miles) south of the capital, Tirana, according to the institute. There was reported minor damage of some buildings and homes from the quake, which was followed by 16 aftershocks. The earthquake provoked an immediate media debate about the construction companies which not always conduct a proper Seismological Study before undertaking a new building, hence putting in danger the lives of the inhabitants. The Seismological Institute complained that such studies cannot be commissioned by companies unless the Finance Ministry makes clear the tariffs that should be applied.