Equity Principles Highlight Variations in Road Network Criticality

Abstract

To prioritise transport interventions, network criticality analysis is often conducted using a utilitarian principle that seeks to maximise benefits for all. This moral perspective does not account for inequalities that exist among different population groups. Using open-source data, we measure and compare the impact of four different equity principles on road network criticality in 22 middle- and lower-income countries. Among these countries, we found significant variations in criticality rankings and spatial distribution of critical links when different equity principles are used. Our findings emphasize the need to deliberately reflect on the equity principle when performing criticality analysis.