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Multi-dimensional inequality and rail transportation access: a comparative study across three generations

Author

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  • Champahom, Thanapong
  • Chonsalasin, Dissakoon
  • Jomnonkwao, Sajjakaj
  • Ratanavaraha, Vatanavongs

Abstract

Transportation equity remains a critical challenge in developing countries, yet limited research examines how different generations experience inequality in railway access. This study investigates how seven dimensions of inequality—cultural, spatial, social, political, knowledge, economic, and environmental—influence railway accessibility across three generations in Thailand. Data were collected from 1,677 respondents (Generation X: 397, Generation Y: 441, Generation Z: 839) and analyzed using measurement invariance to test and compare relationships between inequality dimensions and three accessibility factors across generations: access to rail stations, safety in rail travel, and affordability of rail services. Overall, the hypothesized relationships between inequality dimensions and accessibility factors were confirmed, demonstrating universal relevance across generations. However, significant generational variations emerged: Generation X showed exceptional sensitivity to cultural inequality’s impact on affordability (β = 0.532), Generation Y demonstrated balanced responses across all dimensions (β range: 0.110–0.213), and Generation Z exhibited heightened safety consciousness despite greater affordability resilience. Access to stations and affordability explained substantially more variance than safety concerns. This study contributes the first empirical evidence of generational differences in transportation inequality perceptions, providing a framework for generation-specific policy interventions to enhance railway accessibility and equity.

Suggested Citation

  • Champahom, Thanapong & Chonsalasin, Dissakoon & Jomnonkwao, Sajjakaj & Ratanavaraha, Vatanavongs, 2026. "Multi-dimensional inequality and rail transportation access: a comparative study across three generations," Transportation Research Part A: Policy and Practice, Elsevier, vol. 204(C).
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:transa:v:204:y:2026:i:c:s0965856425004665
    DOI: 10.1016/j.tra.2025.104833
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