Impact of Sand Drifts on Jordanian Railway Infrastructures: Alternatives and Mitigation Measures

Abstract

Railways play a critical role in connecting urban and rural regions, thereby promoting the economic sectors of a country. Nevertheless, railway tracks may suffer from several infrastructural problems and deficiencies including sand drifts, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions. This research aims to provide an analytical review of sand-laden drifts and winds, and the measures that can alleviate their impacts on the Aqaba railway tracks, Jordan. It also studies the influence of phosphate deposition as a result of trucks’ passage on the railway tracks. General and practical recommendations from a socio-geographical context are also highlighted in view of proposing tactical solutions and identifying prospects for upcoming research to advance the technical and economical efficiency of the Jordanian railway network.

Keywords: Sand drifts, wind, railway network, railway infrastructures, mitigation measures.

DOI: 10.7176/CER/14-5-01

Publication date:August 31^st 2022