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Transforming Urban Environments: Understanding the Social Implications of Metrobus (MBS) Service Development in Lahore, Pakistan

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  • Ayesha Anwar

    (School of Architecture and Design, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
    Key Laboratory of National Territory Spatial Planning and Ecological Restoration in Cold Regions, Ministry of Natural Resources, Harbin 150001, China
    Department of Architecture, Faculty of Architecture, Design and Fine Arts, University of Gujrat, Gujrat 50700, Pakistan)

  • Hong Leng

    (School of Architecture and Design, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China
    Key Laboratory of National Territory Spatial Planning and Ecological Restoration in Cold Regions, Ministry of Natural Resources, Harbin 150001, China)

  • Pir Noman Ahmad

    (School of Computer Science and Technology, Harbin Institute of Technology, Harbin 150001, China)

Abstract

This research investigates how the Lahore Metrobus system (MBS) influences perceptions of urban space quality through the lens of urban design and transport infrastructure. Lahore is undergoing significant urban changes with the introduction of a newly constructed mass transit system, which thus necessitates a joint development strategy to preserve its cultural heritage. Recent evolutions in transport planning has heightened the interest in analyzing the way mobility factors affect the perceptions of a place’s quality. The gap in previous work lies in the limited focus on qualitative, human-centered perspectives regarding the impacts of public projects like the MBS on urban space quality. This study uniquely fills this void by examining the influence of the MBS on people’s lives and the quality of urban spaces. Comparing pre- and post-Metrobus scenarios, along with questionnaire surveys of riders and shopkeepers, exposes the neglect of the social image during design and construction. The system was implemented with a focus solely on hard, core infrastructure, thereby neglecting soft components such as area development, social and cultural value, and human-centered design. The government should unite transport agencies, stakeholders, and the public to craft a joint policy for enhancing revenue, ridership, and fostering transit-oriented development (TOD). Research findings will help in achieving social and cultural sustainability for upcoming transport lines in Pakistan, as well as directions for other developing nations looking to implement mass transit networks.

Suggested Citation

  • Ayesha Anwar & Hong Leng & Pir Noman Ahmad, 2024. "Transforming Urban Environments: Understanding the Social Implications of Metrobus (MBS) Service Development in Lahore, Pakistan," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 16(9), pages 1-36, April.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jsusta:v:16:y:2024:i:9:p:3709-:d:1385272
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    3. Ammar A. Malik, 2013. "Policy Options for Financing Urban Transportation in Resource Constrained Environments: The Case of Lahore, Pakistan," The Pakistan Development Review, Pakistan Institute of Development Economics, vol. 52(2), pages 139-155.
    4. Matthew Carmona, 2014. "The Place-shaping Continuum: A Theory of Urban Design Process," Journal of Urban Design, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 19(1), pages 2-36, January.
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