Access to school, choice of school and respective mobility choices in Delhi

Abstract

The study explores the linkages between school choice, distance travelled to school and school travel mode choices and how these linkages govern educational inequality. We used exploratory and explanatory data analysis to investigate the impact of demographic, socioeconomic and infrastructure-related variables on access and choice of schools in Delhi. The study shows that low-income neighbourhoods have equal or more access to government-aided schools than mixed-income neighbourhoods. However, there is a disparity in the choice of school and mobility patterns among households based on socioeconomic status. Households with higher socioeconomic well-being scores (SEWS) are the choice users. Their children are more likely to be enrolled in unaided schools and travel longer distances compared to those from lower SEWS. Reducing the disparity in school choice by socioeconomic status can help parents select schools at shorter distances, encouraging active mobility and promoting equality in education. Equitable and low-carbon access to schools can be promoted by considering a comprehensive approach that integrates school management, urban planning, and transport infrastructure provisions.