Sustainable engineering in a challenging coastal environment: identifying critical research needs and measures for Port Sudan, Sudan

Abstract This paper investigates the urgent need for focused civil engineering research in Port Sudan’s distinctive and challenging coastal environment. Facing extreme climatic conditions, severe water scarcity, with an estimated municipal water availability of approximately 90 m³/capita/year, which is substantially below the commonly adopted absolute water scarcity threshold, and rapid urban and industrial growth driven by population influx and its role as a post conflict administrative center, Port Sudan represents a critical case study for sustainable infrastructure development in harsh coastal settings. The study employs a structured qualitative methodology consisting of a comprehensive review of relevant literature, analysis of existing infrastructure and environmental vulnerabilities in Port Sudan, and synthesis of expert insights across relevant civil engineering disciplines. The analysis identifies eight key research themes spanning building materials, geotechnical challenges, structural vulnerability to environmental exposure, marine infrastructure, road systems, water resources, waste management, and coastal pollution, which are integrated into a structured roadmap intended to guide future research and support sustainable infrastructure development in comparable coastal regions.