Selection of sustainable transport system: a case study

Abstract

Purpose

Sustainable mobility will be the key to the survival of mankind in the 21st century. Cities with debt-ridden and poorly managed transport systems have to change to the ever-growing demands of the public transport system. The low cost of transport has been a key factor in sustainable development for any city. This study is trying to propose a framework for the selection of sustainable transport in context to an Indian case of NCR Delhi, India.

Design/methodology/approach

The present study has identified eight criteria for the selection of a sustainable transport system. Criteria for selection of sustainable transport are CO₂ emissions, cost of fuel, energy efficiency, cost of maintenance, number of accidents, congestion, number of injuries and road noise. Three alternatives of transport considered for this study are state-run bus, pooled car and Shuttl (App-based buses). The analytic hierarchy process (AHP) is used to prioritize the criteria. The study has further illustrated a framework for the selection of sustainable transport based on these criteria.

Findings

It is observed that CO₂ emissions are the most important criterion for a sustainable transport system. It is followed by a reduction in congestion and the number of injuries. Three alternatives of transport considered for this study are state-run bus, pooled car and Shuttl (a service provider). Shuttl has been found to be the most sustainable transport system.

Research limitations/implications

AHP is not able to capture the vagueness in decision-making. Therefore, fuzzy AHP can be considered for further detailed analysis as future scope of study in a different context of a sustainable transportation system. Major implications for policymakers and stakeholders are that development of public transport in cities should be done after considering different dimensions of sustainable operations.

Originality/value

The study has proposed a unique framework for the selection of a sustainable transport system by the public based on sustainability criteria. Findings will help policymakers in formulating strategies for developing sustainable transport system.

Citation

Singh, A., Gurtu, A. and Singh, R.K. (2021), "Selection of sustainable transport system: a case study", Management of Environmental Quality, Vol. 32 No. 1, pp. 100-113. https://doi.org/10.1108/MEQ-03-2020-0059