The impact of road infrastructure wear on the safety and efficiency of freight transportation

Abstract

The growing intensity of freight transportation in the Almaty region, combined with frequent vehicle overloading and insufficient road infrastructure capacity, accelerates pavement deterioration, increases transport and logistics costs, reduces road safety, and decreases traffic efficiency. Purpose: This study aims to assess the influence of road infrastructure conditions and parameters on freight traffic organization in the Almaty region and to identify measures for improving the durability, safety, and efficiency of the road transport network. Methodology: The research is based on the analysis of scientific publications, statistical data, and regulatory-technical documents. The study examines the relationship between pavement deterioration, road capacity, traffic safety, and vehicle operating conditions. Key factors analyzed include axle loads, road category, freight traffic intensity, geometric road parameters, and seasonal maintenance quality. A comparative review of domestic and international practices was also conducted. Results: The study identified that overloaded heavy vehicles, insufficient pavement bearing capacity, low material quality, and adverse climatic conditions are the main causes of rutting, cracking, and surface destruction in the Almaty region. It was also found that steep grades, narrow carriageways, insufficient lane numbers, and poorly designed intersections reduce road capacity and increase freight delivery times. The research highlights the importance of automated weight-control systems, digital pavement monitoring, intelligent transport systems, and optimized traffic-distribution schemes. Originality: The article provides a comprehensive assessment of the combined influence of infrastructure condition, climatic factors, and freight traffic intensity on road-network performance in the Almaty region, while proposing integrated measures for sustainable freight traffic management and pavement preservation.