Impact of transalpine rail network disruptions: A study of the Brenner Pass

This work investigates the impact of sudden rail closures on transportation networks and the local industries affected. A decision support system is introduced, which automatically generates a rail network and simulates passenger and freight traffic. In case of rail closures, freight traffic is rerouted and resulting delays are calculated. Furthermore, the option to transship from rail to road at terminals is enabled. The model is tested using data originating from a major transalpine rail corridor, the ‘Brenner Pass’, which connects Austria and Italy. Results show rail links which are critical and the impact of various disaster scenarios is compared.