New Model of Inspection of Pathological Manifestations in Flexible Pavements to Obtain the Deterioration Index. Case Study: Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) and Acacias (Colombia)

Objective: The objective of this study was to develop an innovative methodology for the inspection and evaluation of urban flexible pavements, proposing an Asphalt Deterioration Index (IDA) based on multicriteria analysis. Theoretical Framework: In cities with small and medium-sized population growth, new strategies for the planning, preservation, and maintenance of flexible pavements have been developed. These strategies show significant advances in improving mechanical performance by incorporating components that maximize their functionality. Method: The MIVES model, integrated with the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), was applied to evaluate deterioration indicators on ten roads in Foz do Iguaçu (Brazil) and Acacías (Colombia). It also included inspections based on unmanned aerial vehicles, georeferenced image processing, and analysis using Geographic Information Systems (GIS). Results and Discussion: The results indicate a high degree of deterioration on most of the roads analyzed, and the IDA values ​​suggest urgent interventions. The integration of UAVs and GIS optimized the identification and geolocation of pavement pathologies, overcoming the limitations of traditional visual inspections. Research Implication: This study provides an accurate and efficient tool for urban pavement management, allowing authorities to prioritize maintenance actions based on technical and objective criteria. Its application facilitates resource optimization and improves decision-making in road maintenance. Originality/Value: The contribution of this work lies in the combination of advanced technologies with a structured assessment model, which offers a replicable approach for urban infrastructure planning in different contexts.