Characterization of Soil Properties Influencing Flash Flood-Related Road Damage in North-Eastern Regions of Bangladesh

Abstract

Flash floods in the North-Eastern region of Bangladesh pose a severe threat to road infrastructure, causing extensive damage and disruptions. This study focuses on the comprehensive characterization of soil properties that play a pivotal role in exacerbating flash flood-related road damage. The North-Eastern region, characterized by diverse geological formations, including the Surma Basin and the Meghalaya Plateau, experiences recurrent flash floods during the monsoon season. The undulating topography and a network of rivers contribute to the complexity of the hydrogeological system, influencing soil properties and their impact on road infrastructure. Field surveys were conducted to identify flash flood-prone areas, focusing on elevation, slope, and proximity to water bodies. Soil samples were collected at various depths and locations within vulnerable road sections, considering different land uses and topographical features. Laboratory analyses included particle size distribution, moisture content determination, soil classification, and cohesion tests. The results of this study highlight specific road sections vulnerable to flash floods, providing a foundation for targeted soil characterization. Key soil properties influencing road damage include high clay content, poor drainage characteristics, and low cohesion. The results also revealed the correlation between vulnerable road sections and specific combinations of soil properties, allowing for the identification of hotspots prone to flash flood-related damage. Finally, this study contributes to an enhanced understanding of the soil properties influencing flash flood-related road damage in the North-Eastern region. The identified key soil characteristics offer valuable insights for road infrastructure planning and design, emphasizing the need for mitigation measures such as improved drainage systems and the use of appropriate roadbed materials to enhance overall road resilience in flood-prone areas.