Determinants of Walking as a Mode of Transportation: A Case Study of Howrah

International Journal of Civil Engineering

© 2025 by SSRG - IJCE Journal

Volume 12 Issue 3

Year of Publication : 2025

Authors : Sharif Hossain, Anuj Kishor Budhkar, Protik Saha Palash, Rahul Kumar Bharti

10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I3P117

How to Cite?

Sharif Hossain, Anuj Kishor Budhkar, Protik Saha Palash, Rahul Kumar Bharti, "Determinants of Walking as a Mode of Transportation: A Case Study of Howrah," SSRG International Journal of Civil Engineering, vol. 12,  no. 3, pp. 185-190, 2025. Crossref, https://doi.org/10.14445/23488352/IJCE-V12I3P117

Abstract:

This study investigates the factors influencing the choice to walk for work trips in Howrah, a densely populated city characterized by narrow streets and by-lanes. A sample of 250 residents from 25 wards were surveyed to analyze socio-demographic and trip-specific variables, including age, education, house rent, and trip length. The study addresses two main questions: whether residents prefer walking for work trips and the reasons behind this choice, such as budget, health, short distance, or a lack of preference. Logistic regression analysis revealed that age, education, house rent, and trip length significantly impact walking preferences. Wealthier individuals were found less likely to walk due to insufficient pedestrian infrastructure, while older individuals walked more for health and budget reasons. The study highlights the urgent need for better pedestrian infrastructure, including safer footpaths and pedestrian-friendly streets, especially for older residents. This research fills a critical gap in urban transportation studies by exploring walking behavior in the Indian context, offering valuable insights for planners aiming to improve urban mobility.

Keywords:

Pedestrian mobility, Resilient infrastructure, Sustainable development, Road safety, Traffic management.

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