A multilayer network methodological framework for transportation and development of mountainous areas

This paper builds on the network paradigm to develop a novel multilayer network model for transportation planning and development of mountainous areas. Each layer of the proposed model encloses information on an environmental aspect, where a network analysis can be applied to provide insights into the network topology and functionality. The analysis of the aggregate graph model reveals the contribution of each layer to the total network's structure and functionality, maps the spatial distribution of each layer to the network layout, and highlights the realism of the proposed model compared to the observed forest complex. Overall, this paper develops a quantitative methodological framework for incorporating environmental information in a single model and provides insights into the study of the 'Koupa' Forest Complex road network, which is a remarkable case in terms of vegetation, land use, and forest diversity.