A rational framework for post-flood road network condition recovery

Heavy-precipitation events can lead to widespread flooding and prolonged inundation of road pavement, which in turn would weaken its structural performance and accelerate its deterioration. A major challenge for road authorities is to prepare a suitable and swift recovery programme to restore the road network in the event of flood-related disruptions. Furthermore, widespread damage caused by flooding and other competing needs for recovery resources imposes additional constraints. The situation is exacerbated by the uncertainty and complexity of the post-flood situation. To address this challenge, a methodology for the formulation of a strategic post-flood pavement recovery programme based on life-cycle analysis is proposed in this paper. The resultant road conditions associated with the choice of work standards, the timing of implementation and funding constraints were evaluated in a case study, and a cost-effective recovery programme was formulated. The case study also demonstrated the use of output data to assist road authorities in strategic decision making. This study serves as a guide for road administration to develop a post-disaster recovery programme and provides insights for further research into post-disaster management of infrastructure systems.