Climate Adaptation: Risk Management and Resilience Optimisation for Vulnerable Road Access in Africa: Engineering

Engineering Adaptation Guidelines

Abstract

AfCAP has commissioned a project, starting in April 2016, to produce regional guidance on the development of climate-resilient rural access in Africa through research and knowledge sharing. The study focusses on: (a) demonstrating appropriate engineering and non-engineering adaptation procedures; (b) sustainable enhancement in the capacity of three AfCAP partner countries; (c) sustainable enhancement in the capacity of additional AfCAP partner countries; and (d) uptake and embedment across AfCAP partner countries.

In this Guideline, engineering adaptation options related to the various climatic stressors are presented. The crucial importance of effective drainage and timely and appropriate maintenance is highlighted. Adaptation techniques for handling the expected changes in temperature and precipitation, windiness, sea level rise and more frequent extreme events are identified and discussed. These are specifically related to unpaved roads, paved roads, sub-grade materials, earthworks and drainage within and outside the road reserve as well as possible implications for construction activities. The impacts on maintenance practices are also highlighted and guidance given.

This work is part of the Applied Research on Rural Roads and Transport Services through Community Access Programmes in Africa and Asia (AFCAP2 and AsCAP)

Citation

Paige-Green, P., Verhaeghe, B., Head, M. (2019). Climate Adaptation: Risk Management and Resilience Optimisation for Vulnerable Road Access in Africa, Engineering Adaptation Guidelines. London: ReCAP for DFID.

Climate Adaptation: Risk Management and Resilience Optimisation for Vulnerable Road Access in Africa, Engineering Adaptation Guidelines.

Published 26 September 2019