Assessment and Evaluation of the Status of Vulnerable Urban Fabrics in Babol Neighborhoods against Flood Hazards

Subject Areas : Sustainable Development

Fatemeh Fotouhi Ahli ¹ , Gholamreza Janbazghobadi ^{2 *} , Sadroddin Motevalli ³ , Jalal Azimi Amoli ⁴

1 - Ph.D. Candidate, Department of Geography and Urban Planning, Nour Branch, Islamic Azad University, Nour, Iran.
2 - Associate Professor, Department of Geography, Nour Branch, Islamic Azad University, Nour, Iran.
3 - Associate Professor, Department of Geography, Nour Branch, Islamic Azad University, Nour, Iran.
4 - Associate Professor, Department of Geography, Nour Branch, Islamic Azad University, Nour, Iran.

Received: 2025-06-21 Accepted : 2025-07-18 Published : 2025-07-21

Keywords: Regeneration, Vulnerable Urban Fabric, Natural Hazards, Flood, Babol,

Abstract :

Adaptation and regeneration of vulnerable urban fabrics in Babol appear essential to prevent further damage. The aim of this study is to regenerate vulnerable urban fabrics in Babol in the face of flood crises. To achieve the research objectives, key indicators affecting the regeneration of vulnerable urban areas will be identified using a combination of library research, field surveys, and theoretical studies. In fact, these indicators, including relevant criteria and sub-indicators, will be recognized and analyzed. Subsequently, to prioritize the influential indicators for the regeneration of vulnerable urban fabrics against natural hazards—with an emphasis on floods in Babol—the Friedman test will be applied using SPSS software. The findings indicate that each component of urban regeneration contributes differently to the neighborhoods with vulnerable urban fabrics exposed to flood hazards. The results show that various factors, such as poor water resource management, deteriorating infrastructure, and neglect of crisis management planning, play a significant role in increasing the vulnerability of Babol's urban areas to floods. Furthermore, empowering the local community and establishing green infrastructure have been identified as effective strategies in mitigating damages. The study highlights that the regeneration of vulnerable urban fabrics in Babol must adopt a comprehensive and multidimensional approach. The use of modern technologies, community participation, and enhancement of the resilience of natural resources are among the essential strategies in this regard. Therefore, it can be concluded that the implementation of these measures can significantly improve the city’s capacity to cope with floods and other natural hazards.

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