Visiting Fellow Dr Ashutosh Kumar contributes to advances in geohazards and resilient infrastructure research

These outputs demonstrate the interdisciplinary strength of IHRR research and its global relevance to pressing societal challenges, from climate-related hazards to the resilience of critical infrastructure systems.

Supporting resilient rail infrastructure 

In a recent paper published in the International Journal of Geomechanics (ASCE) USA, Dr Kumar and collaborators present innovative methods for predicting settlement in railway subgrade layers under moving train loads:

Prakash Mani, V., Kumar, A .*. and Geng, X. (2026), “Settlement prediction of subgrade layer for two-way track under moving train load”
https://doi.org/10.1061/IJGNAI.GMENG-13327

This study develops predictive approaches for estimating railway subgrade settlement under moving train loads, supporting resilient transportation infrastructure design and maintenance.

Advancing seismic resilience of traditional construction

A second study, published in Engineering Structures 353, 122249, investigates the structural behaviour of traditional Himalayan Kath-Kuni masonry systems widely used in the Himalayan region:

Tariq, H., Kumar, D., Kumar, A.* and Sarhosis, V. (2026), “A Finite Element Investigation into the In-plane Load Bearing Behaviour of Traditional Timber-Dry Stone (Kath-Kuni) Masonry Walls”
https://doi.org/10.1016/j.engstruct.2026.122249

The findings provide valuable insights into the seismic performance of heritage structures constructed using timber–stone techniques, contributing to both risk reduction and cultural heritage conservation. The importance of this work is reflected in its recognition by the UNDRR PreventionWeb platform, highlighting its relevance to global disaster risk reduction efforts.

Understanding landslide risk under extreme monsoon conditions

In response to increasingly frequent and intense climate extremes, Dr Kumar has also contributed to research examining landslides triggered by the 2025 extreme monsoon in the Northwestern Himalayas:

Sana, E., Kritka and Kumar, A.* (2026), “Preliminary Investigation of Rainfall-Induced Landslides and Related Damages by the 2025 Extreme Monsoon in the Northwestern Himalayan Region (Landslides)
https://doi.org/10.1007/s10346-026-02703-2

This study documents landslide occurrences and associated impacts, offering critical insights for hazard assessment, early warning systems, and disaster preparedness strategies in vulnerable mountainous regions. The work has also been featured on UNDRR Prevention Web, reinforcing its international significance.

Climate-sensitive geotechnical infrastructure

Further research published in the Journal of Geotechnical and Geoenvironmental Engineering (ASCE) ASCE, 152(1), 04025171 explores the behaviour of pile foundations in expansive clay soils under varying environmental conditions:

Kumar, S., Kumar, A.*, Gaspar, T.A.V. and Osman, A.S. (2026), "Impact of Suction and Swell-Induced Softening on Pile Behavior in an Unsaturated Expansive Clay"

https://doi.org/10.1061/JGGEFK.GTENG-13906

The study sheds light on how changes in moisture and suction, often driven by climate variability, influence soil–structure interaction. These findings support the development of more resilient foundation design strategies in climate-sensitive environments.

Strengthening global resilience through research

Collectively, these publications underline Dr Kumar’s significant contributions to advancing understanding of multi-hazard environments and resilient infrastructure systems, aligning closely with IHRR’s mission to support evidence-based solutions to complex real-world risks. From railway engineering and geotechnical systems to landslide hazards and heritage resilience, this body of work reflects the importance of interdisciplinary research in addressing the challenges posed by climate change and natural hazards globally.