Walking to transit: Determinants of pedestrian accessibility in a South Asian context

Pedestrian accessibility in urban environments is vital for promoting sustainable transport and enhancing quality of life. This study examines determinants of perceived pedestrian accessibility, including perceived built environment, pedestrian infrastructure, perceived environmental conditions, perceived traffic conditions, and perceived safety. Using 734 valid responses from a survey in Lahore, Pakistan, data were analyzed using partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM). Results show that pedestrian infrastructure positively influences perceived accessibility, whereas perceived built environment, perceived environmental conditions, perceived traffic conditions, and perceived safety have significant negative effects. High temperatures and humidity, heavy traffic, absence of zebra crossings and traffic signals, and neighborhoods with dead ends and few route options reduce perceived accessibility. The SEM analysis highlights the complex interaction among these factors. Improving pedestrian infrastructure and addressing perceived built environment, environmental, traffic, and safety deficiencies are essential to enhance accessibility and promote sustainable, livable urban communities in developing countries.