In the heart of Kazerun city, a pressing urban challenge is unfolding, one that could have significant implications for the energy sector and beyond. Mohammadreza Ehsandoost, a lecturer at the Islamic Azad University’s Kazerun Branch, has turned his attention to the Fakharan neighborhood, a prime example of what urban planners term “worn-out texture.” This phenomenon, where old or hastily constructed urban areas become inefficient and problematic, is a growing concern in many cities.
Ehsandoost’s research, published in the journal ‘مهندسی و مدیریت ساخت’ (Engineering and Construction Management), delves into the vulnerability of these areas to earthquakes, a critical factor for urban planning and infrastructure development. “The worn texture in Fakharan neighborhood, like many other urban areas, faces a wide range of problems,” Ehsandoost explains. “The most efficient approach to tackle these issues is to identify potential risks and work towards sustainable development goals.”
The study proposes a conceptual model to qualitatively determine potential risks in the Fakharan neighborhood. The findings are stark: the passage of buildings and the destruction of buildings are within the range of risk severity for the study area. This is not just an academic exercise; the commercial impacts are substantial. Urban areas with high vulnerability indices can lead to significant economic losses in the event of an earthquake, affecting everything from energy infrastructure to commercial real estate.
Ehsandoost’s work is a call to action for urban planners, policymakers, and the energy sector. “Understanding the vulnerability of these areas is crucial for developing strategies that can mitigate risks and ensure sustainable urban development,” he notes. The research underscores the need for proactive measures to address the vulnerabilities of worn-out urban textures, particularly in seismic zones.
The implications for the energy sector are profound. Energy infrastructure, including power plants, transmission lines, and distribution networks, is often located in or near urban areas. A major earthquake in a vulnerable urban area could disrupt energy supply, leading to economic losses and potential humanitarian crises. By identifying and addressing these vulnerabilities, cities can enhance their resilience, ensuring a more stable environment for energy infrastructure and commercial activities.
Ehsandoost’s research is a stepping stone towards more resilient urban planning. It highlights the importance of integrating risk assessment into urban development strategies, ensuring that cities are not only efficient but also safe and sustainable. As urbanization continues to grow, the lessons from Fakharan neighborhood could shape future developments in urban planning and infrastructure management, not just in Iran but globally.
In the quest for sustainable urban development, Ehsandoost’s work serves as a reminder that understanding and mitigating risks is not just a scientific endeavor but a commercial and societal imperative. The journey towards resilient cities starts with recognizing the vulnerabilities that lie beneath the surface, and Ehsandoost’s research is a significant step in that direction.