Public transport design approaches for heterogeneous populations: a study of Santiago, Cape Town, and Johannesburg

Abstract

Public transport planning in developing countries has evolved over the last few decades, with many transport institutions trying to invest in formal public transport systems to improve mobility and accessibility in the cities. This paper aims to understand how three cities in developing countries, i.e., Santiago, Johannesburg, and Cape Town, have addressed heterogeneity in public transport design and provision. In transportation planning, heterogeneity refers to the existence of diverse characteristics, preferences, and behaviours among individuals and groups that influence transportation choices and needs. While South African cities have been planning towards an integrated public transport network, using the BRT system as the backbone of an integrated system that provides high capacity, accessibility, and safety levels, Santiago introduced an integrated metro and bus system in 2007, which has been evolving and expanding since then. According to literature and interviews conducted with academics, city engineers, and planners, there is evidence of sociodemographic, spatial, temporal, mode choice, trip purpose, and preference heterogeneity that needs to be addressed to improve the public transport system in the three cities. The cities have learned that there is a need to conduct more research to enable them to identify and address the needs of different population segments effectively. However, these measures have cost implications for the cities, making it difficult for developing cities to implement them. A key lesson for South African cities is Santiago’s fare integration structure and flat fare system, which increased public transport ridership and improved accessibility for the low-income group. Flat fare systems might be necessary for cities with uneven spatial distribution, especially in developing countries.