Evaluating the level of access and equity of the bus rapid transit (BRT) system

The case of Dar-Es-Salaam, Tanzania

Bibliographic Data

ID12293362
AuthorsLeonard Mwesigwa (University of Toronto, corresponding author), Zehui Yin (0000-0001-6954-7918, University of Toronto), Farber (0000-0002-3870-5984), Steven Farber (0000-0002-8037-7312, University of Toronto)
Year2024
Volume119
Pages103953-103953
Publication date2024-07-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueJournal of Transport Geography (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0966-6923 • E-ISSN: 1873-1236
PublisherElsevier BV (PUBLISHER)
DOI10.1016/j.jtrangeo.2024.103953
OpenAlexW4401209863
LanguageEN
Citations received4
References cited32

Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) systems have witnessed significant growth worldwide, particularly in rapidly urbanizing cities in the developing world, often implemented through public-private partnerships to foster economic growth. However, the success of such ambitions relies on ensuring equitable transit access for all residents, including those living with poverty or other social disadvantages. The purpose of this study is to explore transit access, coverage, and equity of the BRT system in Dar-es-Salaam, Tanzania using infrastructure-based measures of proximity to transit stations and stops. In particular, the equitable distribution of transit access patterns is explored in relation to neighborhood socio-economic strata in the catchment areas within a 30-min walking distance. The study's findings reveal notable disparities in the level of access among various socio-economic strata, with the least deprived population benefiting the most from the Dar-es-Salaam BRT system. As more BRT phases are implemented, there is a continuous increase in the Multidimensional Poverty Index (MPI) within the areas not covered by the BRT system. This suggests that access improvements predominantly favor the wealthier population rather than effectively addressing the needs of the impoverished population. To enhance access and achieve more equitable outcomes, it is crucial to implement targeted strategies and measures. These may include improved integration of the BRT with a feeder system, continuous improvement of Non-Motorized Transport (NMT) facilities, and the promotion of equitable transit-oriented development along the BRT corridor. These initiatives play a vital role in ensuring that vulnerable populations, especially the poor, have access to and can benefit from the BRT services

Bus rapid transit · Business · Dar es salaam · Economic growth · Economics · Environmental health · Environmental planning · Equity (law · Geography · Political science · Population · Poverty · Promotion (chess · Public transport · Tanzania · Transport engineering · Engineering · Transportation Planning and Optimization · Urban and Rural Development Challenges · Urban Transport and Accessibility

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