Urban Infrastructure Research Articles

Small-diameter tunnels play a crucial role in urban infrastructure, managing functions such as sewage, rainwater, and electrical systems. However, the safety assessment of small-diameter tunnel shield construction faces difficulties due to unclear physical relationships and the limitations of traditional physical information models in predicting complex risks. To address this issue, the integration of physical information with data-driven analysis methods offers a promising approach. Combining these advantages, a hybrid model was proposed to establish a robust construction safety risk evaluation framework for small-diameter tunnels under geological conditions. The presently proposed method mainly consists of a clustering of risk factors, physical information stratification, and risk early warning. Specifically, the K-means clustering method optimized by the Harris Hawks algorithm was used for risk identification, the Analytic Hierarchy Process was used for risk analysis, and the physical information output from the risk analysis was used for risk warning. A case study was produced, utilizing the proposed hybrid model for the Wuhan East Lake Deep Tunnel project. The results show the risk transfer path through inadequate personnel safety awareness and protection, mechanical system failures and installation deviations, substandard material quality and improper stacking, outdated or immature construction technology, and environmental risks.

This study investigates the vulnerability of Internet of Things (IoT) devices to climate change in Kazakhstan, where extreme seasonal variability and rising climate risks threaten device reliability. Using high-resolution climate projection data from ERA5 and CMIP6 models (RCP4.5 and RCP8.5 scenarios), combined with qualitative interviews with stakeholders in agriculture, energy, transport, and urban infrastructure, we develop risk assessment models for IoT systems. The analysis quantifies device failure probabilities through temperature and humidity thresholds and extends risk curves to include additional climatic stressors such as solar radiation, wind, and snowfall. Results reveal that IoT devices face heightened risks in northern regions during extreme cold events (below −40 °C) and in southern regions during prolonged heatwaves (above +40 °C). Interviews confirm that maintenance, power supply reliability, and device calibration remain major concerns under harsh climate conditions. The findings provide evidence-based recommendations for adaptation strategies, including resilient hardware design, predictive maintenance protocols, and climate-informed deployment planning. This research contributes to the emerging field of climate-resilient IoT, offering both methodological advances and practical insights for policymakers and infrastructure planners in Central Asia.

Abstract. The use of Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS) has revolutionized urban road infrastructure management, offering unprecedented precision and efficiency in data acquisition and analysis. This study focuses on the application of the RIEGL VMY-2 MMS to assess pavement conditions in an urban environment. The RIEGL VMY-2 system, equipped with dual LiDAR sensors and spherical cameras, enabled the collection of high-density point clouds enriched with RGB and intensity values. These attributes were critical for the automated detection and characterization of pavement defects, such as cracks, potholes, and deformations. Advanced algorithms processed the MMS data to classify the point cloud, extract surface features, and attribute semantic information, such as defect severity and location. Additionally, the study integrates Building Information Modeling (BIM) methodologies to enhance urban infrastructure management. By incorporating the processed geospatial data into a BIM environment, municipalities can create comprehensive digital representations of road assets, facilitating improved planning, maintenance, and lifecycle management. The BIM model serves as a dynamic repository that links geometric and semantic data, offering a more structured and interactive approach to infrastructure monitoring. The results demonstrate the potential of MMS technologies in creating actionable geospatial datasets for urban infrastructure management. The geospatial database generated through this workflow includes detailed pavement condition maps and the Pavement Condition Index (PCI), enabling municipalities to prioritize maintenance interventions and optimize resource allocation. This study underscores the critical role of MMS technologies in modernizing urban infrastructure management, bridging the gap between raw geospatial data and actionable insights for sustainable urban planning.

Abstract The January 2025 wildfires devastated Los Angeles, claiming lives, homes, jobs, and whole communities. As the fires raged, discussions erupted across social and mainstream media, questioning whether water supply systems could have been more prepared to fight the fires. Especially reflecting the narratives and associated policymaker and public expectations around water supply systems fighting wildfires, the manuscript presents a description of proposed adaptations and important limitations for innovations in water supply and distribution that can improve urban resilience to wildfire. The manuscript details opportunities for new technologies and monitoring, with references provided for important recent research. The manuscript also links these options to literature on water distribution systems planning and modeling, which has considered disaster resilience but, to date, we know of no modeling done to evaluate resilience options for water distribution systems specific to wildfire. Finally, the manuscript discusses financial, management, and equity considerations, while also highlighting the important role of land use planning.

The integration of smart technologies in urban infrastructure represents a transformative pathway toward achieving sustainable cities, particularly in rapidly urbanizing regions of the Global South. This study investigates how smart infrastructure initiatives influence urban efficiency, service delivery, and environmental performance in Lafia Metropolis, Nasarawa State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-method design, data were collected from 370 residents, municipal planners, and ICT professionals to examine the operational impacts of digital systems in transport, waste management, energy distribution, and water supply. Simulated analyses indicate that smart technologies improved infrastructure efficiency by 32% and reduced service response time by 25%, demonstrating their potential to enhance sustainability outcomes. However, challenges such as unreliable power supply, inadequate data infrastructure, and weak institutional coordination limit their full effectiveness. Findings reveal that technological adoption alone is insufficient; institutional capacity and integrated planning are crucial for maximizing urban sustainability benefits. The study recommends a multi-stakeholder approach involving public- private partnerships, smart infrastructure audits, and expanded ICT literacy to build resilient, technology-driven urban systems. The research provides empirical and conceptual insights into how emerging African cities like Lafia can leverage smart technology to achieve SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) and SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities).

The impact of perceived social benefits on civic advocacy for urban green infrastructure: A moderated mediation model of collective psychological ownership

Small spaces, big impact: Kindergartens as critical nodes in climate-resilient urban green infrastructure

This paper presents a Vibration-based Track Anomaly Detection (VTAD) system designed for real-time monitoring of urban tram infrastructure. The novelty of VTAD is that it converts existing public transport vehicles into distributed mobile sensor platforms, eliminating the need for specialized diagnostic trains. The system integrates low-cost micro-electro-mechanical system (MEMS) accelerometers, Global Positioning System (GPS) modules, and Espressif 32-bit microcontrollers (ESP32) with wireless data transmission via Message Queuing Telemetry Transport (MQTT), enabling scalable and continuous condition monitoring. A stringent ±6σ statistical threshold was applied to vertical vibration signals, minimizing false alarms while preserving sensitivity to critical faults. Field tests conducted on multiple tram routes in Zagreb, Croatia, confirmed that the VTAD system can reliably detect and locate anomalies with meter-level accuracy, validated by repeated measurements. These results show that VTAD provides a cost-effective, scalable, and operationally validated predictive maintenance solution that supports integration into intelligent transportation systems and smart city infrastructure.

Metagenomic insights into the changes of runoff water quality in a deep tunnel drainage system.

Children’s multi-dimensional accessibility to urban green infrastructure: A systematic review of assessment methods and outlook

As urban construction and infrastructure projects expand, the welfare of construction workers housed in makeshift shelters remains a pressing concern. This paper investigates the potential of modular architecture for temporary construction site shelters, drawing on radical movements like Kisho Kurokawa’s Metabolism, with its emphasis on adaptability and organic growth, Archigram’s vision of mobile, flexible systems, and Shigeru Ban’s humanitarian efforts using recyclable materials for rapid deployment. Despite technological advancements, a significant gap exists in adapting these frameworks to address issues of temporality, sustainability, worker dignity, and flexibility. By synthesising architectural theory, precedents, and system thinking, the study aims to develop a scalable, context-sensitive, and easily demountable design framework, validated through CAD prototypes and stakeholder feedback. Ultimately, this research seeks to contribute to ethical and resilient temporary housing solutions, fostering better living conditions for construction workers within evolving urban environments.

This paper examines the ongoing development of the Gemas–Johor Bahru Electrified Double-Tracking Project (EDTP) and its anticipated impact on Malaysia’s urban rail infrastructure and passenger experience. The 197-kilometre project, valued at MYR7.13 billion, involves the construction of stations, depots, viaducts, bridges, and signalling systems. Employing a mixed-methods approach across three research stages. The research evaluates expected improvements in infrastructure, travel time, and traffic control, while also identifying gaps in digital amenities and service frequency. Key findings highlight high passenger satisfaction with pricing and security but also reveal areas needing enhancement such as internet connectivity and scheduling flexibility. The study contributes to the literature by linking infrastructure upgrades with user experience metrics and offers recommendations for future railway planning and policy. Despite limitations in operational coverage, the findings aim to support sustainable urban development and encourage a modal shift from road to rail.

Digital twin modelling approaches and applications in urban infrastructure operations and maintenance

Urbanization and the growing scarcity of surface land resources have highlighted the strategic importance of underground space as a critical component of sustainable urban infrastructure. This study presents a multi-objective optimization framework for underground infrastructure planning around transit hubs, aligning with the principles of Transit-Oriented Development (TOD). By integrating an agent-based model (ABM) with the Non-dominated Sorting Genetic Algorithm II (NSGA-II) and incorporating the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS), the framework forms a unified evaluation and optimization tool that accounts for user behavior while addressing competing objectives, including minimizing evacuation time and functional conflicts, maximizing functional efficiency, and reducing layout deviations. Using Qingdaobei Railway Station in China as a case study, the method yields notable improvements: a 15% reduction in evacuation time, a 16% increase in development benefits, and a more balanced spatial configuration. Beyond technical gains, the study also discusses station planning and governance under the TOD policy context, highlighting how integrated layouts can alleviate congestion, strengthen functional synergy, and support sustainable urban development.

The quiet financialisation of urban infrastructure. The media in the normalisation of airport-led development in the Paris city-region

This article examines the level of public knowledge regarding the development of a network of climate shelters in Barcelona and the degree of acceptance by city residents (use and rating of the network) of this strategy of adaptation to extreme temperatures. This question is of interest due to the information deficit in communication about climate adaptation processes and the relatively minor role attributed to communication in climate governance, could be a barrier to public participation in these processes. The research used the survey technique. A total of 300 surveys were carried out face-to-face at 30 points in the network. The results show that the mere existence of these facilities in the city does not guarantee that they can be used effectively by residents. Their use depends on the level of knowledge, which is the result in part of the information provided to potential users and the communication strategies applied to this end. The study highlights that although general information about the existence of a network has reached the residents, more specific information about the rollout of the network at city and district level has been clearly insufficient. The people of Barcelona have serious difficulties in identifying the nodes in this network so as to be able to use them in times of need. This research provides ideas that could contribute to the better design of an information and communication strategy that would improve knowledge of the city’s climate shelters. The planning and implementation of climate shelter networks must take the information and communication variable into account, in order to promote the use of these facilities and improve effective climate-related action.

The accelerating urbanization of West Africa presents both a challenge and an opportunity for sustainable energy development. With cities accounting for the bulk of energy consumption in the region, the transition from fossil fuel dependency to renewable energy is essential for achieving energy security, climate resilience, and sustainable growth. This paper critically assesses national energy policies that promote renewable energy in selected West African countries namely Nigeria, Ghana, Senegal, and Côte d’Ivoire with a particular focus on their impact and implementation in urban areas. The study adopts a comparative policy analysis approach, examining legal frameworks, national energy strategies, implementation mechanisms, and city-level applications. While all countries under review have established renewable energy policies or legal frameworks, findings reveal a significant disconnect between national ambitions and urban execution. Common challenges include limited financing for urban renewable projects, weak institutional coordination between national and local governments, inadequate technical capacity, and a lack of city-specific renewable energy targets. However, the research also highlights emerging progress, such as mini-grid deployment in Nigerian cities, solar rooftop programs in Accra, and Dakar’s steps toward electrifying public transport using green energy sources. The paper argues that strengthening the role of city governments, improving policy coherence, and enhancing public-private partnerships are critical to scaling renewable energy solutions in West African cities. It recommends greater decentralization of energy governance, increased investment in urban renewable infrastructure, and harmonization of regional policies through ECOWAS frameworks. Ultimately, aligning national energy goals with urban development strategies will be vital for an inclusive and sustainable energy transition across the region. This research contributes to the broader discourse on energy policy in sub-Saharan Africa by highlighting the urban dimension of renewable energy planning, offering practical insights for policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders committed to a green and equitable energy future.

The traditional method of collecting and processing socio-economic, health and spatial identification data on urban water infrastructure is time-consuming and costly. To reduce costs, geospatial and machine learning (Random Forest) tools were used to establish the Bouaflé Drainage Master Plan. These tools made it possible to characterise and predict the condition of the hydraulic infrastructure. The thalwegs, extracted from altimetric data using connectivity algorithms, were cross-referenced with the road network to identify the collection points for individual structures. The theoretical points were verified in the field to draw up an inventory of the structures and assess their operating condition. Population density, elevations, and the distance of structures from roads and canals are among the variables included in the prediction model. Field data collection identified 102 crossing structures and 38 gutters over 13.69 km. The prediction model has a satisfactory accuracy of over 96%. The distance to the canals significantly impacts the accuracy of the model. Structures located far from the drainage network often fail due to poor hydraulic connectivity. The high impact of population density creates significant anthropogenic pressure on infrastructure. The algorithmic approach reduced the diagnostic phase from three months to one and a half, while also identifying problems and enabling solutions to be targeted more effectively. The trained model could be applied in similar contexts, even in the absence of data on the condition of structures.

Urban decay represents a multifaceted and persistent issue affecting cities globally, characterised by the gradual breakdown of physical infrastructure, social networks, and economic viability. This study conducts a systematic literature review to synthesise and thematically analyse existing research on urban decay in Nigeria, aiming to generate an integrated understanding of the phenomenon and highlight evidence-based pathways toward sustainable urban renewal. The review identifies key causes, manifestations, research trends, methodologies, and interventions related to urban decay in Nigerian cities. It explores the primary drivers of decay, including rapid urbanisation, poor urban planning, economic instability, housing crises, deindustrialisation, infrastructure neglect, environmental challenges, social inequalities, political instability, and cultural neglect. The study emphasises the need for comprehensive interventions encompassing physical renewal, social and economic revitalisation, inclusive planning, community engagement, and equitable service delivery. By addressing these objectives, the review aims to inform urban policy, planning, and practice in Nigeria, supporting the development of resilient, inclusive, and sustainable urban environments in line with national priorities and global frameworks such as the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

This study examined the influence of Snake Plant fibers and Pineapple Leaf Fibers (PALF) on the compressive strength and infiltration rate of pervious concrete, with emphasis on sustainability and alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Compressive strength was tested at 7-, 14-, and 28-days following ASTM C39, while infiltration rate was assessed in accordance with ASTM C1701. Results showed that Snake Plant fibers provided modest strength improvement, with the 0.3% mix achieving 8.93 MPa at 28 days, slightly higher than the control. The most notable effect was on permeability, where the 0.2% mix attained the highest infiltration rate of 0.0203 m/s, highlighting its suitability for drainage-critical applications. In contrast, PALF demonstrated a stronger influence on strength development, with the 1.0% PALF mix reaching 21.02 MPa at 28 days, outperforming the control at 16.24 MPa. Although PALF slightly reduced infiltration compared to the control, its values remained within the standard range for pervious concrete. Statistical analysis (p > 0.05) indicated no significant differences between control and fiber-reinforced mixes, though consistent performance trends were observed. Overall, the findings suggest that PALF is more effective for enhancing compressive strength, while Snake Plant fibers are more effective for improving infiltration. The use of these natural fibers not only improves pervious concrete performance but also promotes sustainability by utilizing agricultural waste. This aligns with SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure), SDG 11 (Sustainable Cities and Communities), and SDG 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production), contributing to eco-friendly construction materials and resilient urban infrastructure.