A Participatory Approach to Urban Transport Planning in Developing Countries

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A Participatory Approach to Urban Transport Planning in Developing Countries

Fouracre, P.R. / Sohail, M. / Cavill, S.

Traditionally transport planning and policy-making has used quantitative surveys to predict future demand for public transport. However, this article argues that a more participatory approach is required in order to better understand household activity patterns and the effects and implications of travel on livelihoods. Such an understanding will enable transport planning and policy to support the needs of those on low income and achieve broader poverty alleviation objectives. This article draws on case studies undertaken in Harare (Zimbabwe), Accra (Ghana) and Colombo (Sri Lanka) as part of a broader study carried out for the UK Department for International Development (DfID) Knowledge and Research Programme. The article examines the effect of public transport on certain dimensions of poverty, considers the links between urban transport and other sectors (health, education and employment) and summarizes key methods of enquiry that might be adopted in effecting a more participatory approach to transport planning.