Evaluation aspects of active transport system: A review and way forward in the context of developing countries

Abstract

Active transport, namely walk, bicycle and manual tricycle, are in use for trips of varied lengths in developing countries like India. Considering their importance in social and economic sector, it is essential to have the associated infrastructure in place. Along with that it is necessary to assess the usability and acceptability of the infrastructure periodically. A systematic review of relevant 116 articles highlighted that the available tools are contextual, do not address dynamic changes and the choice of attributes is narrow but focused. Based on the research gaps being identified, this study aims to develop a framework for a comprehensive and generalized evaluation of active transport systems in developing countries. The dimensions like availability of associated infrastructure, utilities, safety concerns, and policy interventions are integrated in the proposed framework which includes the quantitative and qualitative information related to different aspects and dimensions. The framework consists of indices such as Active Mobility Facility Index (AMFI) and the Perceived Service Quality Index (PSQI) which requires primary (user perception surveys) as well as secondary data (road inventory surveys). The proposed Composite Active Sustainability Index (CASI) is expected to serve as a valuable decision-making tool for planners and policymakers and will enable them in prioritizing and implementing relevant infrastructure, and policies related to environmental, social, and economic dimensions.