Multidimensional index to assess the impacts of flooding on urban public transport operation by bus

• Grant number: 25/11865-0
• Support Opportunities: Scholarships in Brazil - Master
• Start date: August 01, 2025
• End date: July 31, 2027
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Transportation Engineering - Transportation Planning
• Principal Investigator: Cassiano Augusto Isler
• Grantee: Rodrigo Pina Bluma
• Host Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Associated research grant: 24/01115-0 - CCD - Carbon Neutral Cities, AP.CCD

Abstract

The occurrence of adverse weather events is a growing concern for public transport system managers. In a climate change scenario with increasing frequency and intensity of rainfall, it is crucial to identify solutions to mitigate the impacts of such conditions. In this context, the main objective of this research is to propose an index to assess the impact of flooding on bus public transport operations, considering operational, infrastructure, demand, and pollutant emission factors. We propose the use of a hydrological model for flood forecasting based on rainfall data, combined with an overlay of bus routes to identify the segments affected by water depth. Based on this analysis, a multidimensional index will be developed, integrating operational, infrastructure, demand, and pollutant emission characteristics. Based on a case study conducted in the city of São Paulo, the index is expected to support bus route planning by incorporating the impacts of rainfall on the operation of the public transport system. (AU)