A Multi-Parameter Approach to Support Sustainable Hydraulic Risk Analysis for the Protection of Transportation Infrastructure: The Case Study of the Gargano Railways (Southern Italy).
Author(s)
Date Issued
2025
Type
article
Volume
17
Issue
9
Start Page
4151
Journal
Abstract
Transport networks are crucial for economic growth, yet their sustainability is
increasingly threatened by natural hazards. Recent floods in Italy have highlighted the
vulnerability of rail and road infrastructure, causing severe damage and economic losses.
The Gargano Promontory in northern Apulia has experienced frequent hydrogeological
disruptions over the past decade, significantly affecting bridges and the railway network
managed by Ferrovie del Gargano s.r.l. (FdG). However, structural interventions are
complex, time-consuming, costly, and involve certain risks. To enhance sustainability
and comply with railway safety regulations, FdG has adopted non-structural measures to
improve hydrogeological risk classification and management. Despite the prevalence of
flood events, the existing literature often overlooks crucial technical aspects, which this
study addresses. The HYD.RAIL (HYDraulic Risk Assessment for Infrastructure and Lane)
research project aims to improve transport infrastructure resilience by refining hydraulic
risk assessments and introducing new classification parameters. HYD.RAIL employs
a multicriteria approach, integrating parameters defined in collaboration with railway
professionals. This paper presents the initial framework, offering a methodology to identify,
classify, and manage hydrogeological risks in transportation infrastructure. Compared to
standard methods, which lack detailed risk classification, HYD.RAIL enables more precise
flood risk mapping. For example, high-risk points were reduced from 37 to 6 locations on
Line 1 and from 134 to 50 on Line 2 using HYD.RAIL. This approach enhances flood risk
management efficiency, providing railway operators with a more accurate understanding
of infrastructure vulnerabilities