A Study on the aspects of walkability of differently abled people within the public transport district in a city : the case of Colombo Pettah, Sri Lanka

Abstract

This evidence-based research investigates the aspects of walkability within public transport districts, with a specific focus on the needs of differently abled individuals. Drawing insights from the universal design theory, the study underscores the importance of ensuring easy and safe access for often disadvantaged populations in urban environments. The research centers on the public transport district of Pettah in Colombo, Sri Lanka—a critical hub integrating railway transportation, public and private bus services, and a bustling economic center. The main research question revolves around the walkability aspects in existing public transport districts, with two main objectives: understanding the current level of walkability (Objective 01) and the pedestrian environment's quality (Objective 02) for differently abled people within this district. To achieve the first objective, the study employs a walkability checklist, examining six key factors: Sidewalks and Pathways, Crosswalks and Pedestrian Crossings, Pedestrian Safety, Accessibility, Amenities and Comfort, and Land Use and Destination. The checklists cover five zones in the public transport district, revealing that the existing walkability conditions fall short of meeting the needs of differently abled pedestrians, highlighting the need for urgent improvements. For the second objective, the Pedestrian Environmental Quality Index (PEQI) serves as a comprehensive evaluation tool. The PEQI analysis covers 34 intersections and 57 street segments, revealing that 64.7% of intersections were not suitable for pedestrians, and 57.7% of street segments had poor environmental conditions for differently abled individuals. Geographical Information Systems (GIS) represent PEQI attributes and scores, facilitating informed decision-making for pedestrian system improvements. A Walkability Survey with 20 differently abled pedestrians further reinforces the study's findings, highlighting their perceptions of the pedestrian environment within the district. The respondents' overall perception rates the walkability as 'very poor' by 60% and 'poor' by 35%, underlining the pressing need for improvements. Aligning with the case study findings, the research offers recommendations for integrating urban land use and activity networks with walkable planning considerations. Special attention is advised for providing lacking pedestrian infrastructure while maintaining existing facilities properly. By addressing the challenges faced by differently abled individuals, this research provides valuable insights for urban designers and policymakers, enabling them to comprehend the current state of walkability and foster inclusive and enriching urban spaces that enhance the overall well-being of our communities. The findings and recommendations contribute to creating more accessible and equitable urban environments, ensuring that all individuals, regardless of ability, can move freely and safely within public transport districts.