LAC: Resilient infrastructure
Deltares supports governments, development banks, and infrastructure managers across Latin America and the Caribbean (LAC) in building transport infrastructure that is resilient to climate-related and geophysical hazards. In a region where disruptions can have far-reaching consequences—especially in areas with limited network redundancy—our work helps ensure that road networks remain functional, accessible, and inclusive under a wide range of stressors. We combine technical expertise with innovative tools to support strategic, impact-based investments that improve connectivity and reduce vulnerability.
Our methodologies include criticality analysis, stress-testing of road networks under climate scenarios, and cost-benefit evaluations of adaptation measures. These approaches have been applied in countries such as Paraguay and the Dominican Republic, where we’ve helped identify and prioritize infrastructure investments that enhance resilience to extreme weather events and natural hazards. Tools like RA2CE and FloodAdapt enable decision-makers to assess not only technical performance but also the social implications of infrastructure disruptions, ensuring that resilience strategies are both effective and equitable.
A key focus of our work in the LAC region is addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, who are often disproportionately affected by transport disruptions. By integrating equity principles into our assessments, we help ensure that infrastructure planning benefits those most at risk.
Our models have been successfully applied in both data-rich and data-scarce environments, demonstrating their adaptability and relevance across diverse contexts. Whether supporting national ministries or regional development initiatives, Deltares contributes to building infrastructure systems that are better prepared for future challenges and more responsive to the needs of all communities.
Examples of our work
Developing an Analytical Framework to assess road network resilience (LAC region, Paraguay, 2025)
This project aims to improve climate resilience in road networks across the LAC region. It focuses on developing analytical frameworks and modelling tools to assess and prioritize investments, with a strong emphasis on equity and accessibility for vulnerable populations. The ultimate goal is to support strategic, impact-based infrastructure investments that improve accessibility and reduce climate vulnerability.
Contact person: Margreet van Marle.
Resilient Transport Infrastructure: Support for the Development of Transport Infrastructure Adaptable to Climate Change (Dominican Republic, 2019-2020)
Deltares supported the development of strategies to adapt the Dominican Republic’s transport infrastructure to a wide range of natural hazards, including tropical storms, floods, droughts, earthquakes, tsunamis, and landslides. The project aimed to improve the efficiency of public spending by enabling robust decision-making for climate adaptation. Through economic evaluation of alternative interventions, Deltares helped identify cost-effective measures to enhance the resilience of the road network. This work contributed to national efforts to reduce vulnerability and strengthen long-term infrastructure planning in a country highly exposed to climate and geophysical risks.
Contact person: Margreet van Marle.
Building resilience to climate events in the road network of Paraguay (Paraguay, 2017-2018)
This pilot project focused on identifying vulnerabilities in Paraguay’s road network and developing targeted strategies to enhance its resilience to climate change. Deltares conducted a vulnerability assessment to determine critical segments and potential mitigation measures, while also supporting the Ministry of Public Works (MOPC) in strengthening its climate resilience planning capabilities. The project laid the groundwork for more informed infrastructure investments and helped build institutional capacity to address climate risks in the transport sector.
Contact person: Mike Woning.
