Low Preference Towards the Use of Public Transport: A Case Study  of Females of Lahore

Zarafshan Ali; Muhammad Bilawal  Azam

doi:10.32350/gsr.42.05

Zarafshan Ali University of Management and Technology
Muhammad Bilawal Azam University of Management and Technology, Lahore, Pakistan

DOI: https://doi.org/10.32350/gsr.42.05

Keywords: public transport,, private vehicles,, harassment and safety,, transport preference,, overcrowding

Abstract

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This study delves into the underlying reasons why women in Lahore prefer private vehicles over public transport, despite the latter being available. Comfort stands out as a major factor; private vehicles provide a level of comfort and security that public transport doesn't seem to. These factors collectively contribute to females’ reluctance to use public transportation. The research identifies a few other interlinked issues that reinforce this trend. First, the inadequacy of public transport infrastructure suggests compelling hurdles for women. Second, concerns about harassment and safety instigate women's choice to avoid public transportation. Last, the shortage of public vehicles, which leads to overcrowding and unreliable service, further deters female passengers from using public transport. The quantitative methodology is used to understand the gravity of this issue through surveys. The sample for this study is 384 females from Lahore. For analysis, the research uses descriptive statistics, along with more advanced techniques such as regression analysis, hypothesis testing, and ANOVA, to explore the relationship between dependent and independent variables and to validate the study's hypotheses. The analysis was conducted using SPSS software. The study concludes by proposing approaches to address the challenges identified, suggesting potential solutions to improve public transport services for females in Lahore.

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