A Combined Approach Utilizing Geographic Information Systems and Spatial Equity Indicators to Prioritize the Development of Bus Rapid Transit Lines until 1410 (Case Study of Isfahan, Iran)

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Dep. of Science and Research, Faculty of Natural Resources and Environment, Dep. of Remote Sensing and GIS, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, Iran

2 Center for Remote Sensing and GIS Research, Faculty of Earth Sciences, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

3 Faculty of Civil, Water and Environmental Engineering, Shahid Beheshti University, Tehran, Iran

4 Faculty of Geography, Islamic Azad University, Najaf Abad Branch, Isfahan, Iran

Abstract

Introduction: In recent decades, rapid urbanization and insufficient urban planning have disrupted urban cohesion and spatial integrity. "The concept of 'spatial equity' has developed as an essential framework in urban planning discourse to alleviate spatial inequalities arising from urban fragmentation In urban environments, spatial inequalities, uneven distribution of services, and environmental challenges are often interrelated. This underscores the significance of addressing issues such as service allocation in urban spaces, particularly within the context of developing countries. In alignment with global trends and national macro-policies, the discourse on spatial equity has gained significant attention within the realm of Iranian urban studies, as it is recognized as a fundamental component for achieving sustainable development. A well-structured and extensive public transportation system is pivotal for urban life, facilitating public mobility and ensuring equitable access to essential services. Integrating spatial equity principles in public transportation development can significantly enhance system efficiency while improving citizens' access to urban service centers without extensive construction. Isfahan, Iran's third-largest metropolis, faces rising intra-city travel, declining quality of life, environmental pollution, and disrupted spatial equity due to population growth and physical expansion. Material and methods: The metropolis of Isfahan, being the third-largest in Iran, has witnessed substantial population growth and physical development in recent years. Consequently, it now faces various challenges, such as an increase in intra-city travel, a decline in quality of life, worsening environmental pollution, and growing spatial disparities. The existing public transportation system is inadequate in meeting the needs of its residents, resulting in inefficient urban service management. As such, investing in and developing suitable public transportation infrastructure has become a pivotal strategy to address these concerns and foster a more sustainable and equitable urban environment. Assessing public transportation, a critical factor shaping urban structures, is essential for addressing these challenges. To improve equitable access to public transportation, comprehensive studies in Isfahan have proposed the establishment of 21 Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) lines. This research applies a multi-criteria decision-making approach, incorporating Shannon Entropy and COPRAS models, to prioritize BRT line development with a focus on spatial justice. The planning horizon for this study extends to 2031 (1410 in the Iranian calendar). A key novelty of this research lies in the integration of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) with spatial justice indicators to guide BRT line prioritization.
Results and discussion: First, the performance of existing BRT lines was assessed using permeability, proximity, and accessibility metrics, while spatial equity was quantified using the Gini coefficient and Lorenz curve. Subsequently, the Gini coefficient for each proposed BRT line was calculated and compared with the current value to evaluate the potential impact of each line. The Shannon Entropy method was employed to assign weights to the importance of the criteria, prioritizing proximity, permeability, and accessibility, respectively. Finally, the COPRAS method was utilized to rank the 21 proposed BRT lines for development by 2031.
Conclusion: Results suggest that, despite the Ayatollah Ghafari Terminal to Sheikh Saduq line (14.9 km) falling within the medium-length category, it should be considered the top priority for implementation when taking into account the other relevant criteria.

Keywords: Spatial Equity, Public Transport, Shannon Entropy, Kopras, Lorenz Curve

Keywords

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