Bulletin of Earthquake Science and Engineering

Bulletin of Earthquake Science and Engineering

Vulnerability Assessment of Bargh-Alestom Neighborhood in Tehran against a Possible Earthquake

Document Type : Research Article

Authors
Alireza Fallahi 1
Yasaman Ahesteh 2
Fereshteh Aslani 3
1 Professor of Shahid Beheshti University (SBU), Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tehran, Iran
2 M.Sc. of Shahid Beheshti University (SBU), Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tehran, Iran
3 Assistant Professor of Shahid Beheshti University (SBU), Faculty of Architecture and Urban Planning, Tehran, Iran.
10.48303/bese.2024.2033902.1179
Abstract
The purpose of the current research is to reduce the physical vulnerability of the neighborhood by identifying its weak and strong points, as well as analyzing the collected data and providing suggestions and solutions to increase the resilience of the neighborhood against a possible earthquake. In order to conduct this research, the survey and descriptive-analytical (hybrid) method have been used. In this regard, the required data has been collected through reviewing specialized texts, searching in reliable internet sources, field surveys, detailed observations, questionnaires and interviews.
Furthermore, the SWOT table has been prepared; then, in order to use the SWOT matrix, its analysis is drawn in the form of relevant diagrams, and suggestions and solutions are compiled from their analysis. The case study of this research is the Bargh-Alestom neighborhood located in district 2 of Tehran municipality. First, this article identifies the current situation of the neighborhood, and then it examines the weak and strong points from the physical aspects. Finally, using the obtained data and information, it provides suggestions and solutions to reduce the physical vulnerability of the neighborhood against a possible earthquake. According to the investigations, 16 strengths, 6 weaknesses, 13 opportunities and 5 threats have been identified in the neighborhood. Moreover, the growth strategy scored 208, revision strategy scored 78, the competitive strategy scored 80, and the defensive strategy scored 30.
Therefore, the strategy of reducing the vulnerability of the Bargh-Alestom neighborhood against a possible earthquake is a growth strategy. This strategy of exploiting external opportunities by focusing on strengths enables the Bargh-Alestom neighborhood to exploit its current situation more effectively. By emphasizing the strengths identified in the neighborhood, the growth strategy helps to increase the neighborhood's capabilities against earthquakes and other secondary risks. In this article, after identifying the strengths and weaknesses of the Bargh-Alestom neighborhood, solutions were presented in order to reduce the physical vulnerability of the neighborhood. These solutions are divided into two categories: administrative and physical. The most important management strategies in this neighborhood include the preparation of guidelines for the three stages before, during and after the earthquake; preparation of neighborhood identification maps; identification of safe and vulnerable areas of the neighborhood; planning and implementation of training courses; planning and implementation of earthquake drills; and control and supervision of relief and service users.
Then, the maps of emergency evacuation and emergency and temporary accommodation of each zone of the neighborhood have been prepared and marked on the map based on the obtained information. These maps help people to be directed to safe places and emergency evacuation in the neighborhood in case of an earthquake. By having access to these maps, people can know the right route for escape and evacuation and go to the safe places. In addition, these maps provide rescue and relief agencies with the detailed information they need to provide assistance and services in times of emergency.
Keywords
Physical vulnerability
Earthquake
Resilience
Bargh-Alestom neighborhood
Tehran

Subjects

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  • Receive Date 27 June 2024
  • Revise Date 25 July 2024
  • Accept Date 17 August 2024