An analysis of the vulnerability of road networks in response to disruption events through accessibility indicators specification

Abstract

ABSTRACT The objective of this paper is to propose an analysis of the vulnerability of road transportation networks in response to external shocks. Through the estimation of the accessibility and Link Importance Indicator (LII), a vulnerability road transportation analysis has been carried out and applied to a real case study. The case study comprises the 112 districts of the metropolitan area of the city of Naples, in the south of Italy. The main findings of this study are represented by the accessibility indicator introduced, which can be considered a measure to capture the vulnerability due to disruptions in the road network, and the LII, which can be used to identify critical roads. The proposed methodology represents a useful tool for local administrations, transportation agencies, and civil protection that need to deal with emergency situations, which are becoming more common.