Exploring the influence of dispositional factors on travel behaviour in Accra Metropolis, Ghana

Abstract

Understanding how people travel in urban areas is essential for effective policy planning and infrastructure development to achieve sustainable mobility. While external factors such as infrastructure are frequently emphasised, the influence of psychological and social dimensions on travel choices remains underexplored. This study examines the impact of dispositional factors on travel behaviour in Accra, Ghana, based on data collected from 615 participants through a questionnaire. A combination of Chi-square and Cramer's V tests, factor analysis, and K-means cluster analysis was employed to analyse residents' travel patterns and preferences. The factor analysis identified key determinants of travel behaviour, including reliability and comfort, security and safety, affordability, and the quality of public transport systems. The K-means cluster analysis further revealed that security and safety were consistently high across all clusters, emphasising their universal significance in transportation preferences. Additionally, efficiency, as reflected in shorter travel times, emerged as a critical factor across all clusters. Cluster-specific findings highlighted a lower reliance on car ownership in Cluster 2, suggesting a preference for shared or public transportation. In contrast, traffic congestion was a notable concern in Clusters 1–3, while it was less critical for Cluster 4. These findings offer actionable insights for policymakers and stakeholders. Enhancing the reliability and comfort of public transport, improving safety measures, and addressing affordability can proactively influence travel demand, reduce congestion, and promote sustainable transportation options. Tailoring policies to the specific dispositional factors of Accra's residents ensures more effective urban mobility solutions aligned with local needs.