Seismic Analysis of Multistorey Building on Sloping Ground Using ETABS

Buildings constructed on sloping terrain exhibit significant mass and stiffness irregularities, resulting in complex seismic behavior compared to structures on flat ground. This study evaluates the seismic performance of a G+10 reinforced-concrete (RC) building on sloping ground using ETABS 2022. Three structural configurations—(i) building on sloping ground, (ii) sloping ground with shear walls and boundary elements, and (iii) building without shear walls—are modeled and analyzed using the Response Spectrum Method as per IS 1893 (Part 1): 2016, considering Zone V seismicity and medium soil conditions. The study investigates key seismic response parameters, including storey displacement, inter-storey drift, base shear, mode shapes, and hinge behavior, to assess structural stability and lateral load resistance. Results indicate that buildings on slopes experience greater lateral displacement, torsional response, and uneven base shear distribution due to column height variation. However, the inclusion of shear walls and boundary elements significantly enhances structural stiffness, reducing displacement, drift, and base shear in both X and Y directions. Comparative evaluation demonstrates that the dual system offers improved seismic performance by minimizing lateral deformation and strengthening energy dissipation capacity. The findings highlight the importance of incorporating lateral-resisting systems for safer and ductile design of multistorey buildings in seismically active hilly regions.