Comprehensive Impact Analysis of a Transportation Hub Complex under Earthquake Effects: A Case in China

Abstract

The transportation hub complex (THC) is an urban landmark building integrating the functions of transportation, commerce, office, and residence. Due to its convenient transportation and diverse service functions, the THC has a certain agglomeration effect in its surrounding areas. Therefore, earthquake damage to the THC will not only affect its own functionality but also impact the connectivity of the regional transportation system, leading to socioeconomic losses in the agglomeration area. To assess the comprehensive impact of THC under earthquake effects, this article considers three aspects: transportation, society, and economy. In terms of the transportation aspect, the impact of the loss of hub function in the THC on the regional transportation system is assessed from three aspects: resource integration capability, radiation scale, and connection efficiency. Subsequently, the agglomeration area generated by the THC is determined based on the kernel density analysis method. The social impact of the THC on its agglomeration area involves three aspects: the reduction of population flow, number of closed shops, and loss of infrastructure resources. The economic impact is measured as the sum of direct and indirect economic losses. Finally, a case study is conducted on a city’s THC. The research results indicate that the discontinuation of a subway station in the THC has a greater impact on transportation, society, and the economy. Furthermore, compared with the social service function of the THC, ensuring the hub function after an earthquake can more effectively reduce indirect economic losses. This study can provide a basis for improving the seismic resilience of the THC from the perspectives of regional transportation and socioeconomy.