Q-RESTORE: Quantum-Driven Framework for Resilient and Equitable Transportation Network Restoration

TL;DR

This paper presents a quantum computing-based framework for rapid and equitable transportation network restoration after disasters, prioritizing underserved communities and outperforming traditional algorithms in speed and fairness.

Contribution

It introduces a novel hybrid quantum algorithm for network restoration that emphasizes social equity and computational efficiency, addressing limitations of existing methods.

Findings

Quantum solver achieves ~8.7 seconds computation time.

Outperforms genetic algorithms in speed and fairness.

Prioritizes low-income communities in restoration planning.

Abstract

Efficient and socially equitable restoration of transportation networks post disasters is crucial for community resilience and access to essential services. The ability to rapidly recover critical infrastructure can significantly mitigate the impacts of disasters, particularly in underserved communities where prolonged isolation exacerbates vulnerabilities. Traditional restoration methods prioritize functionality over computational efficiency and equity, leaving low-income communities at a disadvantage during recovery. To address this gap, this research introduces a novel framework that combines quantum computing technology with an equity-focused approach to network restoration. Optimization of road link recovery within budget constraints is achieved by leveraging D Wave's hybrid quantum solver, which targets the connectivity needs of low, average, and high income communities. This framework combines computational speed with equity, ensuring priority support for underserved populations. Findings demonstrate that this hybrid quantum solver achieves near instantaneous computation times of approximately 8.7 seconds across various budget scenarios, significantly outperforming the widely used genetic algorithm. It offers targeted restoration by first aiding low-income communities and expanding aid as budgets increase, aligning with equity goals. This work showcases quantum computing's potential in disaster recovery planning, providing a rapid and equitable solution that elevates urban resilience and social sustainability by aiding vulnerable populations in disasters.