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01-11 

1 

 

 

 

Article 

The role of infrastructure in enhancing urban 

resilience to natural hazards: a case study of 

Tehran 
Navid Navidpour1*, Ali Mokhtarzadehaghdam2, Mohammadreza Yari3, Samiyeh Ghanbili4, 

Ramin MakarineZhad5, Sahand Heidary5 

1Department of Computer Engineering, faculty of software engineering, Amirkabir University of Technology, Tehran, 

Iran 
2Department of Construction Engineering and Management, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Iran University of Science and 

Technology, Tehran, Iran 
3Department of Civil Engineering, Faculty of Hydraulic Structures, University of Tehran, Tehran, Iran 
4Department of Civil Engineering, International Islamic Azad University of Parand, Tehran, Iran 
5Faculty of Computer Engineering, Khajeh Nasir University, Tehran, Iran 

               A R T I C L E   I N F O 
 

Article history: 
Received 10 February 2025  
Received in revised form 
18 March 2025 
Accepted 31 March 2025 
 
Keywords:  
Resilience, GIS modeling, Worn-out urban texture, 
Urban planning, Risk assessment,  
Crisis management 
 
*Corresponding author 
Email address: 
nav1370@gmail.com 
 
 
 
DOI: 10.55670/fpll.fusus.3.3.1 
 

A B S T R A C T 
 

Urban resilience is paramount in mitigating the vulnerability of worn urban 

fabrics to natural hazards and safeguarding cities against irreparable damage. 

This study focuses on worn-out areas of Tehran city, analyzing their social and 

physical resilience dimensions. Adopting a descriptive-analytical approach, the 

research employs statistical methods such as one-sample t-tests, Pearson 

correlation, and regression coefficient analysis using SPSS and GIS. The 

statistical population comprises 230 randomly selected citizens residing in the 

study districts. The findings show that the physical dimension, with a score of 

3.31, is more important than the social dimension, with a score of 2.81, which 

emphasizes the need to strengthen urban resilience. According to the results of 

this study, the studied areas do not have sufficient stability and resilience 

against natural disasters. Prospective analyses conducted using Geographic 

Information System (GIS) and the Mic Mac strategic studies model indicate the 

complexity of factors affecting urban resilience. These analyses reveal the high 

impact of variables and the interrelationships between them. In particular, it 

has been found that indicators related to infrastructure and management have 

a more significant impact in Region 7 compared to Region 15, which emphasizes 

the need to develop targeted intervention strategies. This comprehensive study 

provides a better understanding of urban resilience mechanisms and 

emphasizes the importance of coordinated planning and preventive measures 

to strengthen vulnerable urban areas. Ultimately, the results of this study show 

that adopting appropriate and coordinated measures is essential to ensure the 

safety and sustainability of cities. 

 

1. Introduction 

Earthquakes have increased both the probability and 

consequence of natural disasters such as floods, storms, and 

droughts [1]. Infrastructure resilience must be increased to 

reduce the harmful effects of natural disasters [2]. Most urban 

management programs emphasize the high resilience of 

infrastructure networks before a disaster occurs [3]. 

Infrastructure must be developed in such a way that, first, it 

suffers minor damage during disasters, and second, it can 

return to its previous state in the shortest possible time. The 

term resilience is often left to debate and does not have a 

general definition or consensus, although it is more used in 

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N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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integrated urban drainage management [4]. The concept of 

resilience is widely applied in many fields of study 

(economics, engineering, psychology, sociology). In 

economics, resilience is the ability to quickly recover from a 

shock. In earthquake engineering, resilience is the ability to 

reduce hazards and do retrieval activities in ways that 

minimize social disorders and reduce the effects of future 

earthquakes [5]. In social science, resilience is the ability of 

groups or communities to deal with anxiety and external 

disturbances due to social, political, and environmental 

changes. The community's resilience is the ability of a society 

to be resilient against disaster, which refers to the ability to 

prevent or protect against major threats. In general, resiliency 

indicates the capacity of an urban system or society at risk of 

compliance with resistance or change to reach an acceptable 

level of performance, organization, and structure. The 

growing pace of urbanization around the world has brought 

unprecedented challenges to human societies. This paradigm 

shift has created complex issues, especially in the context of 

future urbanization in developing countries [6]. These 

challenges cover various areas, including urban 

sustainability, infrastructure development, the urban 

environment, and the resilience of aging structures. With the 

increasing pace of urbanization, the need to adopt a forward-

looking approach to confront these challenges is becoming 

increasingly apparent [7]. Urban managers and policymakers 

are forced to develop strategies to create sustainable urban 

systems, especially in metropolitan areas that face the 

complexities of sustainable growth and development. The 

conceptual framework of resilience, first proposed in 1973 by 

Holling in the field of bioecological sciences, has become the 

basis for numerous subsequent definitions over time. In this 

context, resilience does not simply mean the ability to survive 

but includes broader concepts such as sustainable 

livelihoods, the ability to resolve crises, and building resilient 

communities [8].  

Researchers have defined resilience as the ability of a city 

to cope with and adapt to a wide range of shocks and stresses, 

such that the structures critical to maintaining urban function 

remain efficient in crisis conditions [9]. In the specialized field 

of dilapidated urban textures, resilience has emerged as an 

independent concept and plays a central role in 

contemporary urban planning literature. This aspect of 

resilience is not only a physical feature but also a mental-

spatial category that requires a fundamental review and 

modernization of urban structures to provide targeted 

services tailored to the needs of citizens. In the context of the 

increasing global population, especially in urban areas, the 

complexities and challenges in different sectors are also 

intensified [10]. Therefore, risk management in urban 

planning and design is particularly important and requires 

adopting strategic measures for crisis management, reducing 

vulnerabilities, promoting safety, and improving the quality 

of life. In this regard, the city acts as a dynamic platform for 

various events and highlights the vital role of urban planning 

in predicting, preventing, and managing crises [11]. The 

dilapidated areas in District 7 of Tehran are an example of the 

social, economic, and political challenges that have arisen due 

to the migration of the original residents to other parts of the 

city, the arrival of immigrants with diverse economic and 

cultural backgrounds, the lack of social solidarity and the 

weakness in citizenship education. One of the fundamental 

issues in this area is the lack of a sense of belonging among 

the residents, which exacerbates the problems of this urban 

context. Given the historical importance of Tehran, this city 

has a special place for studying urban resilience, and 

analyzing this issue in District 7 is of particular necessity [12]. 

This research seeks to conduct a comprehensive analysis of 

resilience measures in the dilapidated urban fabric of District 

7 of Tehran, focusing on social and cultural dimensions. Using 

a mixed approach that includes quantitative and qualitative 

methods, this study aims to assess social and physical 

resilience [11]. In addition to identifying key driving forces in 

each dimension, this research will propose practical and 

effective solutions to strengthen the resilience of dilapidated 

urban fabrics in District 7 of Tehran. In this way, the present 

research will contribute to the broader discourse of urban 

resilience and provide insights and suggestions for increasing 

the adaptive capacity of urban spaces against natural 

disasters and other disruptive events [8]. 

2. Theoretical concepts 

Resilience, a concept that was first introduced in biology, 

is known as a tool for analyzing the ability of systems to cope 

with shocks and recover from them. This concept is 

particularly important in the urban context, as modern cities 

have become the focus of attention and resilience studies due 

to their social, economic, and environmental complexities 

[11]. In fact, resilience and adaptation in cities mean their 

ability to manage unexpected challenges and environmental 

pressures so that these spaces are able to cope with crises and 

return to stable and efficient states. Global studies have 

shown that the vulnerability of urban communities depends 

on several factors, including demographic diversity, 

socioeconomic status, and physical and infrastructural 

conditions. Crises are not limited to physical damage but also 

have widespread economic and social impacts [12]. This 

situation requires urban planners and officials to take a 

comprehensive and strategic approach to strengthening 

resilience and reducing damage. Resilience can be examined 

from different angles [13]. The three main approaches in this 

field include sustainability, recovery, and transformation. 

Each of these approaches emphasizes specific dimensions of 

resilience and represents different ways to analyze and 

improve the capacity of cities to face crises. In the 

sustainability approach, resilience is defined as the ability of 

a system to maintain the status quo in the face of crises and 

return to its initial conditions after the crisis occurs [14]. 

Communities with high tolerance can overcome severe 

pressures and quickly return to their previous state. This 

approach is particularly useful in assessing the capacity of 

communities to deal with environmental and social 

challenges. In the recovery approach, resilience emphasizes 

more on the timing and quality of the return to a stable state. 

Resilient communities are able to quickly and efficiently 

return to their original state, and this characteristic indicates 

their capacity to absorb and adapt to change. This aspect of 

resilience is particularly important in urban planning and 

interventions, as it can provide solutions to reduce the effects 

of crises and accelerate the reconstruction of communities. In 

the transformation approach, resilience is seen not only as a 

return to the previous state but also as a process of adaptation 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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and acceptance of change. In this view, change is inevitable 

and a positive force that can lead to the transformation and 

evolution of societies [15]. Resilient communities in this 

approach can exploit crises as an opportunity to grow and 

evolve into new and more stable states. Finally, these 

different approaches to resilience, especially at the urban 

level, provide a comprehensive and comprehensive 

framework for the analysis and management of urban crises. 

These concepts practically help urban officials and planners 

design appropriate policies and strategies to strengthen 

resilience and address upcoming challenges [16]. By 

embracing resilience as a dynamic concept that encompasses 

sustainability, recovery, and transformation, urban planners 

and policymakers can formulate adaptive strategies to 

enhance the resilience of urban spaces against a spectrum of 

shocks and tensions. Table 1 shows the definition of resilience 

in the literature. 

2.1 Social resilience 

The concept of social resilience, rooted in understanding 

dynamic systems and their intricate interplay with the 

environment, offers profound insights into the complexities 

of societal responses to unforeseen events. This perspective 

is particularly valuable for decoding the decisions and 

adaptations related to natural resources management, 

spotlighting the inherent characteristics of how different 

social classes navigate unexpected challenges. Social 

resilience is multifaceted, encompassing three vital aspects: 

resistance, recovery, and creativity. These elements 

collectively define a society's ability to not only withstand 

shocks but also to rebound and innovate in the aftermath 

[26]. 

The intricacies of social resilience parallel the broader 

concept of resilience but introduce an added layer of 

complexity due to the diverse components that constitute 

society—natural, social, and economic environments. Similar 

to resilience, social resilience operates at different levels, 

reflecting the interconnected nature of societal elements. In 

the contemporary world, where societies are consistently 

exposed to a spectrum of risks, social resilience emerges as a 

critical imperative. Achieving social resilience necessitates 

the mobilization of various forms of capital, with social capital 

playing a pivotal role in fortifying communities' adaptive 

capabilities and comprehensive crisis response [27]. 

2.2 Economic resilience 

Economic resilience, a cornerstone of societal well-being, 

entails society's capacity to adapt strategically and minimize 

losses stemming from risks [28]. This adaptability is 

manifested across the five pillars of resilience: anticipation, 

resistance (sustainability), absorption, response, and 

adaptation and recovery. Economic resilience isn't merely 

reactive; it is a proactive endeavor aimed at preserving the 

structure and functionality of the economy, even in the face of 

uncertainty. The economic resilience of a society is intricately 

connected to the foundational principles of economic stability 

and equilibrium [29]. 

2.3 Institutional and organizational resilience 

Within the dimension of institutional and organizational 

resilience, the physical attributes of organizations play a 

pivotal role in shaping a society's ability to withstand and 

recover from crises. The number of local institutions, access 

to timely information, the preparedness of forces and 

volunteers, adherence to crisis management guidelines, and 

the effectiveness of laws and regulations—all contribute to 

the resilience of institutions. Additionally, the satisfaction of 

local residents with institutional performance, especially in 

areas like housing construction, determines the overall 

robustness of the societal response to crises [30]. 

Table 1. Resilience definition in literature 

Author Resilience definition 

Bahrami et al. [14] 
(2014) The ability of a system to absorb 

disruptions, adapt during changes, and 
reorganize itself is crucial for preserving 
its core principles, functions, identity, 
structure, and feedback mechanisms. 

Jutidharabongse et al. 
[15] (2024) The capacity of a system to uphold its 

function and structure amidst internal 
and external changes. 

Hall et al. [16] (2011) 
The system's capacity to endure 
environmental shocks while retaining its 
effective resource allocation capability. 

Palik et al. [17] (2002) 
Sustaining structure and function in the 
aftermath of disturbances is imperative 
for ongoing and continuous 
development. 

Rodríguez et al. [18] 
(2007) It encompasses the capability to 

recuperate and deliver essential life, 
business, industry, government, and 
societal functions in the face of calamities 
and various risks. 

Madni et al. [19] (2009) 
It denotes the capability of a system or 
society to endure encountered challenges 
and dangers, adapt proactively, and 
efficiently mitigate adverse effects, all the 
while preserving its fundamental 
structure and functionality. 

Leichenko [20] (2011) 
The capacity to endure a diverse range of 
shocks and stresses. 

Desouza and Flanery 
[21] (2013) It represents the city's capacity to absorb 

disruptions while preserving its function 
and structure. 

Folke [22] (2006) 
The system's capability to revert to its 
initial state following a natural 
disturbance or an issue induced by 
human activities. 

Zahedi et al. [23] (2023) 
The system's capability and capacity to 
persist in functioning amid challenges 
and adverse conditions. 

Shi et al. [24] (2021) 
The capability to adapt to and respond 
effectively to changes within urban 
systems. 

Estelaji et al. [25] 
(2024) It embodies an organization's capacity to 

adapt to changes within its economic and 
institutional environment. 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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Preserving ancient values is a primary goal for resilient 

societies, and historical contexts and old neighborhoods serve 

as tangible repositories of identity and culture. Mosques, 

cisterns, baths, cells, markets, and historical houses embody 

the spirit of a community and are deemed invaluable. 

Unfortunately, inefficient urban planning and management 

policies jeopardize the potential for reusing and maximizing 

these historical assets. This not only compromises the 

preservation of cultural heritage but also contributes to the 

gradual deterioration of central core tissues in cities, 

intensifying conflicts within urban contexts [31]. 

In this research, a focal point has been the exploration of 

social resilience, especially concerning the challenges faced 

by cities and worn-out urban tissues. Social resilience, as a 

core dimension of broader societal resilience, empowers 

positive responses to changes, the maintenance of essential 

functions, and the preservation of societal fabric despite 

external pressures. The examination of social resilience is 

crucial in understanding and fortifying societies against the 

multifaceted challenges of the modern world. In conclusion, 

the augmentation of resilience, stability, and adaptability 

against tensions, risks, and dangers represents a 

transformative pathway toward revitalizing the capacities 

and potentials of a society. A more flexible social system 

correlates with diminished societal vulnerability to crises and 

tensions. Social resilience, extending beyond mere 

responsiveness to social, political, and environmental 

changes, emerges as an indispensable determinant in a 

society's ability to confront external pressures and 

disturbances.  

2.4 Worn texture and urban dilapidation 

Urban decay has a special place in the urban landscape, 

bringing signs of disorder, imbalance, and neglect [32]. This 

phenomenon is considered a narrative of urban history that 

shows the developments and changes in neighborhoods and 

urban spaces over time. Worn-out textures that were once 

alive and dynamic have now become serious urban problems 

due to neglect, for which physical restoration alone is not 

enough, and special attention should be paid to preserving 

cultural identity and social cohesion [33, 34]. The distinctive 

features of worn-out buildings include various elements, 

including architectural features and the quality of urban 

infrastructure. These buildings are often associated with 

historical monuments and show signs of non-compliance with 

technical standards. The old facade of these buildings and the 

use of traditional materials such as brick, wood, and iron, in 

addition to their own beauty, indicate an inability to comply 

with modern construction principles. Narrow streets and 

irregular accesses contribute to the sense of disorganization 

and highlight the need for a comprehensive strategy for urban 

renewal. The challenges of these contexts go beyond aesthetic 

aspects and are rooted in the structural deficiencies of these 

buildings [35]. The lack of proper earthquake resistance and 

inadequate maintenance have accelerated their deterioration. 

This necessitates the need for strategic measures to 

strengthen these buildings and ensure the safety of their 

residents. Also, the lack of infrastructure and services in these 

areas has created additional problems for residents, including 

the lack of open spaces and a lack of cultural and educational 

facilities [36]. The dilapidated buildings in District 7 of Tehran 

are emblematic of larger problems in urban development. 

Historical neglect and spatial disorganization have exposed 

these areas to natural and unnatural hazards and pose a 

threat to the health of the community. These problems are not 

only visible in physical deterioration but also in the decline of 

social and cultural values [37]. Loss of social dignity and 

disregard for cultural values exacerbate the problems of these 

urban spaces and make them vulnerable to various threats. A 

comprehensive and multidimensional approach is needed to 

revitalize these contexts. While physical reconstruction is 

essential, revitalizing the social and cultural aspects is equally 

important. Urban planning and management must go beyond 

infrastructure renovation to preserve culture and strengthen 

social cohesion [38]. The renovation process must aim to 

restore a sense of identity and social pride in addition to 

restoring physical structures. 

 

3. Methodology 

This research uses a qualitative approach to examine the 

challenges and resilience strategies in Districts 7 and 15 of 

Tehran and considers comparative and applied case analyses 

as its main approach. For data collection, a semi-structured 

questionnaire is used as the main tool, which allows for a 

detailed analysis of the resilience indicators related to these 

areas. In this research, purposive sampling is carried out 

among long-term residents, especially people who have lived 

in these areas for more than 15 years, so that the data is rich 

in real experiences and long-term perspectives. This 

methodology allows the research to comprehensively and 

accurately examine the specific challenges and resilience 

strategies of each area and provide a better understanding of 

urban resilience. The research will include all residents of 

Districts 7 and 15 to gather a wide variety of experiences and 

opinions related to urban resilience. The sample size was 

calculated using the Cochran formula, resulting in the 

selection of 230 residents of the Atabek neighborhood as a 

representative sample of the community. This method 

ensures that the research results are statistically accurate and 

fully reflect the opinions and experiences of the majority of 

residents in these areas. 

3.1 District 7 of Tehran 

The population recorded in the last census of 2015 was 

approximately 330,000 people living in 91,000 households. 

The district is demarcated by Districts 3, 8, 6, 12, and 11 on its 

various sides and is recognized for its vulnerability due to an 

aging urban infrastructure. Data from the Reconstruction 

Organization [37] indicates significant urban renewal efforts, 

with 639 building permits issued over the past decade, 

leading to the renovation of over 83,671.1 square meters of 

deteriorated fabric. The deteriorating state of buildings in 

these areas, particularly in neighborhoods like Armenians, 

poses a safety risk and highlights the need for extensive 

redevelopment. Approximately 15.52% of the district's area 

is considered deteriorated, housing a population of 86,788, 

which underscores the critical challenges facing District 7 and 

justifies its selection for a focused study on urban resilience 

and revitalization. Figure 1 likely presents a detailed map of 

District 7, delineating its division into 5 zones and 14 

neighborhoods, offering an essential overview of its 

geographical and administrative layout. This map is 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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foundational for visualizing the district's spatial organization 

and aids in the identification of specific areas for focused 

study or intervention.  

 

 
Figure 1. Zones and Neighborhoods 

3.2 Gorgan neighbor 

Gorgan neighborhood, covering 60 hectares with 22.8 

hectares of deteriorated urban fabric, hosts a population of 

21,390, reflecting a slight growth since 2010. This area 

exhibits a balanced gender ratio and an average household 

size of 2.7, showcasing a predominantly young demographic, 

with the largest age group being 30 to 34 years. Historically a 

migrant hub during Tehran's expansion in the 1930s, 

Gorgan's diverse population and physical landscape have 

evolved significantly, incorporating both residential and 

commercial zones. Despite its urban advancements, Gorgan 

maintains a strong residential character, with over 80% of its 

plots dedicated to housing. The quality of neighborhood 

buildings is shown in Table 2. 

Table 2. The quality of neighborhood buildings 

Buildings Quality Number of 
Buildings 

Percentage 

Newly Constructed 586 
buildings 

21.4% 

Under Construction 64 
buildings 

2.3% 

Maintainable 854 
buildings 

31.2% 

Dilapidated/Destructible 1206 
buildings 

44.1% 

Vacant/Non-essential Structures 23 
buildings 

0.8% 

Unspecified 2 buildings 0.07% 

Total 2733 
buildings 

100% 

 

 

 

Urban planning in Gorgan faces challenges, particularly 

in traffic management and accessibility, due to narrow 

streets, primarily less than 6 meters wide. The 

neighborhood's development strategy emphasizes the 

creation and enhancement of east-west passageways to 

improve traffic flow and access. This approach underlines the 

ongoing need for urban renewal that prioritizes improved 

living conditions, infrastructure enhancements, and the 

addition of green spaces. 

3.3 Shahed neighbor 

Shahed is the largest neighborhood in District 7's Zone 1, 

covering approximately 130 hectares, with 62 hectares 

classified as deteriorated fabric. The neighborhood has a 

population of 42,153, reflecting a slight increase since the 

2010 census and constituting 55% of the zone's population. 

The gender ratio is balanced, with 98.4 males per 100 females 

and an average household size of 2.8, aligning with regional 

averages. The social fabric comprises middle-class, educated 

residents, primarily employed in government and private 

sectors. A significant number of immigrants contribute to the 

area's social diversity. Established in the 1920s and 1930s, 

the neighborhood has experienced substantial 

transformations due to demographic shifts and urban 

development. Notable landmarks include Tavakoli Garden 

and Behrami Children's Hospital. Challenges include 

residential congestion, inadequate north-south connectivity, 

and a network of narrow alleyways, exacerbated by the 

construction of the Imam Ali Highway, causing spatial 

disconnection. 

3.4 Nezam Abad 

Nezam Abad covers approximately 58 hectares, with 34 

hectares classified as deteriorated fabric. The population 

stands at 12,264, with a balanced gender ratio and an average 

household size of 2.8. The demographic composition indicates 

a young population, with a majority in the 20-40 age group. 

The neighborhood evolved post-1930s, initially housing 

workers and later accommodating Armenian, Zoroastrian, 

and Jewish communities, whose presence has since declined. 

Urban development has been affected by the Imam Ali 

Highway, creating a spatial divide. The area features 

residential, commercial, and industrial activities but faces 

accessibility challenges due to narrow streets and limited 

urban renewal. The neighborhood consists of three 

superblocks with distinct characteristics. Older buildings 

typically have one to two stories, while newer structures, 

post-1980s, include up to six stories. Facilities such as Imam 

Hossein Hospital significantly influence the area's urban 

fabric. 

3.5 Atabak 

Atabak is characterized by significant commercial 

activities along its main streets and mixed residential zones 

with multi-story buildings. Historically, the neighborhood has 

evolved from its early settlement by residents from the city 

gates area, many of whom were involved in land trading 

businesses from the 1960s. Previously known as Atabak, the 

area encompassed neighborhoods from Bisim to Hashem 

Abad, while its current boundaries extend from Civil Street to 

Besat Highway. Urban challenges include balancing 

commercial expansion with residential needs and addressing 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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the infrastructural gaps resulting from historical 

development patterns. 

3.6 Valiasr (Bisim) 

Valiasr neighborhood, also known as Bisim, is 

characterized by a lack of educational facilities due to recent 

urban development. The demolition of three schools for the 

construction of Imam Ali Highway has left the northern part 

of the neighborhood devoid of educational facilities. The 

neighborhood's residents are primarily government and 

municipal workers, and the area also includes the notable 

Tavakoli Garden and Behrami Children's Hospital. 

3.7 Minabi 

Minabi neighborhood occupies an area of 78 hectares 

and has a population density of 323 people per hectare. It has 

a balanced gender ratio and a relatively young population, 

with active individuals constituting the largest demographic 

segment. The neighborhood has seen extensive urban 

development since 2005, particularly with the construction of 

Imam Ali Highway. Its demographic changes have been 

significant due to the displacement and resettlement caused 

by the highway construction. 

4. Results and discussion 

In this chapter, following an understanding of the study 

area and employing the methods outlined in section 3, the 

collected data is analyzed, and the research findings are 

presented. Initially, resilience indicators in both the social and 

physical dimensions, derived from theoretical foundations, 

are extracted. The reliability of the researcher-created 

questionnaire is then ascertained using Cronbach's alpha 

method. Standard deviation and the impact of variables on 

social resilience in both Districts 7 and 15 are determined 

through one-sample t-tests in each social and physical 

dimension separately. Convergent validity (AVE) is utilized to 

ensure the research model's suitability for social resilience in 

both districts. PLS software outputs are employed to conclude 

whether the model is fit for purpose in terms of resilience 

indicators for deteriorated urban textures. Subsequently, the 

evaluation of resilience indicators for social and physical 

dimensions for Districts 7 and 15 is derived through one-

sample t-tests, after which the overall resilience in social and 

physical dimensions is established. The relationship between 

social and physical resilience dimensions with overall 

resilience is analyzed for each district. Pearson correlation 

tests are used to assess the correlation between variables due 

to the interval nature of the questions and the use of a five-

point Likert scale for indexing. In assessing the physical 

dimension, optimized boundary methods for form and 

texture indices and other physical dimension indicators are 

evaluated using spatial analysis, geographical data statistics, 

and network analysis tools in GIS software. For future-

oriented analysis of social and physical resilience in Districts 

7 and 15, questionnaires and impact matrices are formulated 

to analyze the final results. Influential and influenced factors 

are identified and analyzed within the MicMac software 

framework. The research findings for District 7 show that 

internal reliability calculated through SPSS using Cronbach's 

alpha was significant, as indicated in Table 1, with a 

Cronbach's alpha of 0.74 for the questionnaire items, 

confirming the study's reliability. 

For District 15, one-sample t-tests with a test value of 3 

were conducted. It was found that if the mean variable for 

social interactions, neighborhood identity, sense of belonging, 

social participation, civic education, security, and social 

resilience is statistically less than 3, these variables, and 

ultimately social resilience, are in a state of disorder. The 

fundamental research model is assessed for fit, with essential 

statistics such as the average variance extracted, composite 

reliability (C.R), and Cronbach's alpha examined. With the PLS 

output, Table 3 and Table 4 confirm that the model is suitable 

in terms of fit indices. Figures 2 through 8 depict the over 30-

year-old buildings, the number of floors in deteriorated 

fabric, and the granularity of deteriorated fabric in District 7, 

Zone 1. These Figures highlight areas requiring renovation, 

the current state of urban aging, and the granularity of 

deteriorated textures.  

 
Figure 2. Buildings over 30 years old in Zone 1 of District 7 

 

 

 

 
Figure 3. Buildings over 30 years old in Zone 1 of District 7 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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Figure 4. The number of floors in the deteriorated fabric of Zone 1 of 

District 7 

 

 

 
Figure 5. The number of floors in deteriorated fabric 

 

 

 
Figure 6. The granularity of deteriorated fabric in the neighborhoods 

of Zone 1, District 7 

 

 
Figure 7. Particle size distribution of the deteriorated fabric in the 

neighborhoods of Zone 1, District 7 

 

 

 

 

Figure 8. Percentage of renewal in the deteriorated fabric block of 

Zone 1, District 7 

Table 3 and Table 4 details the mean and standard 

deviation of social resilience variables in District 15, while 

Tables 2 provide one-sample t-tests for satisfaction levels 

with social and physical resilience indicators, respectively. 

To evaluate social resilience, 15 indicators were selected from 

theoretical and research backgrounds and assessed using 

single-sample t-tests, with significance set at the 0.95% 

confidence level. The findings revealed that most social 

resilience indicators showed low satisfaction levels among 

residents of Zone 1, District 7 in Tehran, indicating overall 

low social resilience. Exceptions include indicators related to 

voluntary cooperation to reduce vulnerability, institutional, 

and awareness of potential accident damages, which scored 

medium to high. Critical areas identified for improvement 

include first aid training, emergency response familiarity, and 

trust in official media, which recorded the lowest resilience 

levels. Table 3 in the study details citizens' satisfaction levels 

with these social indicators. 
 

 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

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For the assessment of physical resilience, 14 indicators were 

selected based on theoretical underpinnings and research 

background, evaluated through single-sample t-tests, with all 

indicators considered significant at the 95% confidence level. 

The results indicated that all the physical resilience 

dimension indicators are at a low level of satisfaction. Hence, 

it can be inferred that the satisfaction of residents living in the 

neighborhoods of Zone 1, District 7, regarding physical 

resilience indicators, averages at a very low level.  

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A closer look at the physical indicators revealed that the 

quality of streets and alleys and the quality and durability of 

residential buildings were identified as having the lowest 

levels of resilience. Table 4 details the citizens' satisfaction 

levels with physical indicators. For the hypothesis testing of 

the research, single-sample t-tests were conducted with a test 

value of 3. This means that if the mean of variables such as the 

level of social interactions, neighborhood identity, sense of 

place belonging, social participation, civic education, security, 

and social resilience is statistically less than 3, these variables, 

Table 3. Single sample T-test satisfaction level for social indicators 

Indicator T-Value Mean Mean 
Deviation 

Degrees of 
Freedom (df) 

P-Value 

Awareness of Natural Disaster Risks -13.83 2.118 -1.450 229 0.001 

Residents' Awareness of Safe Places Map -19.15 2.764 -1.671 229 0.001 

Residents' Awareness of Housing Safety Regulations -13.75 2.223 -0.450 229 0.01 

Residents' Awareness of Emergency Facilities -23.67 1.112 -1.471 229 0.001 

Level of First Aid Training & Familiarity with Actions 
Like Transferring Injured, Injections, Bandaging 

-31.45 2.310 -0.890 229 0.000 

Residents' Skills in Providing First Aid -28.15 2.211 -1.763 229 0.001 

Mental Peace During and After an Incident -18.80 1.568 -0.870 229 0.000 

Trust in Official Media News -37.56 2.406 -0.218 229 0.000 

Collaboration in Crisis Problem Solving -14.43 1.807 -1.910 229 0.001 

Willingness to Volunteer for Reducing Vulnerability 11.32 1.340 0.450 229 0.01 

Sense of Place Belonging -13.87 2.674 -1.781 229 0.01 

Mutual Trust Between People and Organizations -19.56 2.809 -1.568 229 0.000 

Trained and Volunteer Forces -21.45 2.561 -0.740 229 0.000 

Awareness of Reactions and Proper Behavior in Times of 
Crisis 

-24.34 2.452 -1.430 229 0.001 

 

Table 4. Single sample T-test satisfaction level for physical indicators 

Indicator T-Value Mean Mean 
Deviation 

Degrees of 
Freedom (df) 

P-Value 

Access to Medical Centers -18.32 2.756 -0.433 229 0.000 

Access to Educational Centers -12.65 2.562 -1.874 229 0.001 

Condition of Neighborhood Water Piping -17.67 2.561 -1.564 229 0.001 

Access to Temporary Housing -21.12 2.760 -0.430 229 0.001 

Access to Public Transportation -15.35 2.432 -0.989 229 0.01 

Access to Green Spaces and Evacuation Routes -18.45 2.542 -1.874 229 0.001 

Access to Main Road Network -21.67 2.654 -1.438 229 0.001 

Distance from Natural Hazard Zones -23.89 2.876 -0.211 229 0.000 

Access to Fire Stations -11.80 2.234 -1.870 229 0.001 

Quality and Durability of Residential Buildings -31.14 2.639 -0.890 229 0.000 

Condition of Electricity and Electrical Installations -23.34 2.333 -0.675 229 0.000 

Presence of Evacuation Route Maps -20.05 2.843 -0.963 229 0.001 

Durability of Public Services -18.11 2.564 -0.780 229 0.000 

Quality of Alleys and Neighborhood Streets -34.23 2.245 -1.460 229 0.001 

 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

9 

 

and ultimately, social resilience, are considered to be in a state 

of disarray. The significance level of the t-test indicates that 

the means for the level of social interactions, neighborhood 

identity, sense of place belonging, social participation, civic 

education, security, and overall social resilience are below 3. 

According to Table 5, the mean for social interactions is 2.30, 

for neighborhood identity is 2.41, for a sense of place 

belonging is 2.58, for social participation is 2.33, for overall 

social resilience is 2.25, for civic education is 2.23, and for 

security is 2.18. These results confirm the primary hypothesis 

and the related sub-hypotheses, indicating lower levels of 

social interactions, identity, belonging, participation, 

resilience, civic education, and security than the benchmark 

level of 3. 

For testing the main hypothesis, structural equation 

modeling was conducted. Initially, the fit of the measurement 

model was examined. Model fit refers to the extent to which a 

model is consistent with and agrees with the observed data. 

Therefore, the research's proposed model fit was further 

analyzed to ensure its compatibility with the research data, 

ultimately aiming to derive answers to the research 

questions.  

Table 5. Mean and standard deviation of social resilience variables in 

district 15 

Type Count Mean Standard 
Deviation 

Sense of Place Belonging 200 2.58 0.6723 

Neighborhood Identity 200 2.41 0.8761 

Social Participation 200 2.33 0.9321 

Level of Social 
Interactions 

200 2.30 0.7645 

Social Resilience 200 2.25 0.6132 

Civic Education 200 2.23 0.9831 

Security 200 2.18 0.6549 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The examination of the conceptual model's fit was 

carried out in two stages: first, evaluating the fit of the model's 

measurement part and second, assessing the fit of the model's 

structural part, which is discussed in detail subsequently. 

Table 6 shows the Questionnaire Indicators and Their 

Reliability Coefficients. The description of the table below 

demonstrates that the impact of indicators such as the level of 

social interactions, sense of place belonging, social 

participation, and neighborhood identity on the resilience of 

deteriorated fabric in District 15 is statistically significant at 

the 0.001 level with a 95% confidence interval. Furthermore, 

according to the priority of each indicator in the Friedman 

test, it was shown that the sense of place belonging has the 

most significant impact, with social interactions and social 

participation ranking second and third, respectively. 

Therefore, based on the obtained results, it can be said that 

the researcher's hypothesis regarding the impact of social 

resilience indicators on deteriorated fabrics in District 15 is 

confirmed. In other words, factors like sense of place 

belonging, level of social interactions, social participation, and 

neighborhood identity have a significant effect on the social 

resilience of deteriorated fabrics in District 15. Single Sample 

t-test by Priority of Variable Impact is shown in Table 7. 

Table 6. Questionnaire indicators and their reliability coefficients 

(District 15) 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Index 
Number 

Variable α Value 

1 Sense of Place Belonging 0.84 

2 Social Participation 0.68 

3 Civic Education 0.72 

4 Level of Social Interactions 0.87 

5 Social Resilience 0.78 

6 Neighborhood Identity 0.69 

7 Security 0.81 

Table 7. Single Sample t-test by Priority of Variable Impact (District 15) 

Variable df Sig. (2-
tailed) 

Mean 
Difference 

95% Confidence Interval of the Difference 

Upper Lower 

Sense of Place Belonging 198 0.001 0.5634 0.7400 0.3871 

Social Resilience 198 0.001 0.3341 0.7659 0.7843 

Social Participation 198 0.03 0.2343 0.5943 0.1562 

Level of Social Interactions 198 0.05 0.7765 0.4983 0.1875 

Neighborhood Identity 198 0.05 0.3421 0.3290 0.1245 

Civic Education 198 0.067 0.4351 0.7840 0.1670 

Security 198 0.76 0.4565 0.7847 0.4312 

 



N. Navidpour et al. /Future Sustainability                                                                                August 2025| Volume 03 | Issue 03 | Pages 01-11 

10 

 

5. Conclusions 

In the research's conclusion, the discourse on resilience 

emerges as a contemporary subject within urban 

management. It addresses the gap between theoretical 

foundations of resilience and their practical application, 

highlighted by the lack of comprehensive studies on social 

and physical resilience. Natural disasters have led to a 

reconsideration of the approach to urban spaces, 

underscoring the necessity of creating resilient cities. This 

study aimed at a comparative analysis and evaluation of social 

and physical resilience in the deteriorated urban fabrics of 

Tehran's Districts 7 and 15. The findings reveal that the 

physical dimension of resilience scored highest, with a rank of 

3.31, followed by the social dimension at 2.81. Conceptual 

views on urban space recovery and spatial sustainability 

exhibit a thorough understanding of resilience concerning 

deteriorated fabrics. By integrating the physical and social 

dimensions, the study faced challenges in data collection. The 

simultaneous examination of social and physical resilience 

required comprehensive observations of the inhabitants' 

connection with their living spaces, impacting the depth of the 

study. Despite these challenges, the study successfully 

employed various methods and techniques to enrich the data 

collection process. Through the deployment of appropriate 

variables and methodology aligned with the realities of urban 

resilience in the target fabrics of Districts 7 and 15, the 

research presented distinct outcomes compared to frequently 

repeated scientific approaches, which often yield similar 

results. The thorough analysis of research indicators, 

combined with approaches for identifying drivers and 

scenarios, allowed for the presentation of various strategies 

as part of a multifold strategy in subsequent phases. The 

study confirmed the second hypothesis, suggesting that a lack 

of neighborhood belonging and social participation are 

principal components in the disordered state of social 

resilience within the deteriorated fabric of District 15 of 

Tehran. The research process's reliability and validity were 

assured through meticulous data evaluation at various stages. 

Ethical issue 
The authors are aware of and comply with best practices in 
publication ethics, specifically with regard to authorship 
(avoidance of guest authorship), dual submission, 
manipulation of figures, competing interests, and compliance 
with policies on research ethics. The authors adhere to 
publication requirements that the submitted work is original 
and has not been published elsewhere. 

Data availability statement 
The manuscript contains all the data. However, more data will 

be available upon request from the authors. 

Conflict of interest 

The authors declare no potential conflict of interest. 

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