Quantification of Multi-hazard Risk of existing RC bridges in Barak Valley Region (India)

Abstract

The ability to assess and evaluate the condition of existing bridges adequately and accurately is a critical aspect of bridge maintenance. In order to maintain and manage existing concrete bridges, it is necessary to conduct a condition assessment. When multiple hazards can deteriorate bridges and make them vulnerable or risky, any decision support concerning the management of existing structures requires special attention. The present study presents a rational and systematic framework for making practical decisions about the hazards present in the region and the appropriate level of risk. The study proposes an AHP framework to rank the hazards in hierarchical order based on the region's characteristics and the suitability analysis range, which would further provide the degree of risk that would jeopardize bridges in Assam's Barak valley region. Such an approach is novel to the Indian subcontinent, and it would effectively improve the bridge authority's ability to make bridges safe and comfortable for transporters. The proposed method can assist decision-makers in selecting appropriate strategies for improving existing concrete bridges. As a result, bridge inspection costs can be reduced significantly, maintenance and repair funds can be more effectively allocated, and highway transportation assets’ safety, mobility, longevity, and reliability can be improved.