Effect of Weather on Passengers Access and Egress Mode Choice

Abstract

This study examines the impact of weather on public transportation, focusing on bus systems in Indian cities. Adverse weather events, such as intense rainfall and flooding, pose challenges to the efficiency and accessibility of bus services, affecting commuter satisfaction and operational reliability. With the projected increase in urban population and personal vehicle usage in India, there’s a pressing need to improve bus transit systems to alleviate traffic congestion, air pollution, and enhance urban quality of life. The problem addressed revolves around understanding how weather influences bus transit efficiency, especially during the last mile of passengers’ commutes. The study aims to explore passenger perspectives, identify preferences, and address challenges faced during adverse weather conditions. The objective is to provide insights that inform targeted strategies to enhance the resilience and reliability of bus transit systems. The methodology involves conducting surveys and interviews with bus passengers in Indian cities to gather qualitative and quantitative data on their experiences and perceptions related to weather-induced disruptions. Analysis will identify common themes, preferences, and challenges, using statistical methods to uncover correlations and trends. The anticipated result of the study offers transportation authorities insights into passenger perspectives, aiding in the creation of targeted strategies to improve the resilience and reliability of bus transit systems during adverse weather. Ultimately, it seeks to contribute to the development of more passenger-centric and resilient public transportation systems in Indian cities. © The Author(s), under exclusive license to Springer Nature Singapore Pte Ltd. 2025.