Review of Optimized Feeder Vehicle Systems in Developing Countries

Abstract

With the population growth and changes in travel patterns, transportation demand in urban cities continue to increase rapidly. Since it is a cause for higher traffic densities, poor parking facilities, air pollution and road accidents, transport planners have to provide a system, which can ensure safe and comfortable mobility to all users as well as suppliers’ perspectives. Therefore, developing an affordable and efficient public transportation network is a critical goal for developing countries seeking to address urban mobility challenges. Feeder vehicle systems, which provide the first and last mile connectivity to the passengers, offers an opportunity for creating a system capable of meeting multiple needs of users and operators. It is an effective public transportation system that already operates in developed countries. It offers immense potential for improving accessibility and reducing congestion. However, the implementation of effective feeder system in developing countries is fraught with challenges due to uncoordinated transit networks, infrastructure limitations, and budget constraints. This paper presents a critical review of recent planning methodologies and selected decision support systems for optimizing feeder transport services.