Open Access

ARTICLE

Development of a Comprehensive Ground Suitability Index for Building Construction: A Case Study

Jerome Gacu^1,2,3,*, John Angelo Venus¹, Cleo Faith Forio¹, Leo Banay¹, Eljay Soledad¹, Anabeth Famini¹, April Rose Fajiculay¹, Aprille Ann Sim¹, Jason Rufon¹

1 Civil Engineering Department, College of Engineering and Technology, Romblon State University, Odiongan, 5505, Romblon, Philippines
2 Disaster Prevention Research Institute, Kyoto University, Gokasho, Uji, Kyoto, 611-0011, Japan
3 Department of Civil Engineering, Institute of Technology, Far Eastern University, Sampaloc, Manila, 1015, Philippines

* Corresponding Author: Jerome Gacu. Email:

Revue Internationale de Géomatique 2025, 34, 235-257. https://doi.org/10.32604/rig.2025.063512

Received 16 January 2025; Accepted 18 March 2025; Issue published 25 April 2025

Abstract

The rapid urbanization of rural areas often leads to the construction of medium to high-rise buildings without adequate knowledge of ground suitability, posing significant risks to structural safety and long-term development. This study addresses this critical issue by developing a Comprehensive Ground Suitability Index (CGSI) framework tailored for rural municipalities. Using Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), the CGSI integrates geophysical, geo-environmental, and geohazard parameters to systematically evaluate land suitability for construction. Data were collected from government agencies, previous studies, and field surveys focusing on the Municipality of Odiongan, Romblon. Parameters such as bearing capacity, soil type, slope, flood height, and liquefaction susceptibility were prioritized using AHP, ensuring consistency in decision-making. GIS tools were utilized to overlay weighted parameters, producing maps that categorize areas into suitability levels. Results reveal that Barangays Poctoy and Amatong are highly suitable for construction, while the Poblacion area exhibits marginal suitability due to high flood and liquefaction risks. The CGSI framework provides a structured, replicable approach to integrating multicriteria decision-making into urban planning, offering valuable insights for safe and sustainable development. This study underscores the urgency of combining GIS and AHP to address land-use challenges in rapidly urbanizing rural areas. The framework equips local governments with the tools to refine land use policies, mitigate hazards, and promote resilient urban development. Future research can enhance the CGSI by incorporating additional datasets and advanced modelling techniques to improve its applicability and precision.

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Keywords

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