An Analysis for the establishment of a public transportation system for all in Thailand: A case study of Trang Municipality, Trang Province
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Abstract
The establishment of a public transportation system for all is a pertinent issue in Thailand due to the significant increase in the elderly and disabled population over the past decade. The establishment of an inclusive public transportation system is a crucial aspect of creating an urban environment that accommodates the elderly. Systematic data analysis is essential to adequately address the requirements of all user groups. Our research aims to examine the possibilities, challenges, and requirements of users to inform the design of public transportation services for all in Trang Municipality, employing the principle of universal design throughout the process. The research instruments employed include evaluation of satisfaction with public transportation services based on the World Health Organization’s criteria for age-friendly urban environments, a survey assessing the travel requirements of the Trang Municipality residents, and in-depth interviews in January, 2025 with stakeholders engaged in the development of public transportation systems within the study area. The research findings indicated that the majority of the older sample group utilized private vehicles due to the absence of public transit infrastructure in the municipality capable of accommodating the elderly and disabled. The survey identified 93 public buildings and spaces frequently utilized by the elderly in Trang Municipality and its vicinity, the majority of which were in the commercial center, administrative center, Wat Kuttaram region, and Trang Hospital area. These frequently visited hubs could be serviced efficiently by establishing a new public bus system. The examination of satisfaction with amenities and public transportation systems in Trang City revealed a significantly low level of satisfaction, mostly due to the high costs of public transportation and its inadequate support for the elderly and disabled. The research findings culminated in the formulation of a comprehensive master plan for a public transportation system for all, encompassing three public bus route designs, 11 projects for the enhancement of sidewalks, intersections, and junctions to facilitate accessibility for the elderly and disabled, the establishment of 38 public bus stops, and strategic management recommendations aimed at ensuring the sustainable development of a public transportation system for all within Trang Municipality.
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