Impact of Covid-19 on Mobility: The Case of Lahore

Abstract

Coronavirus pandemic has caused severe consequences on traveling behavior since its inception into the world in 2019. The government authorities have declared protective means to limit transportation while discouraging community congregations by giving guidelines to have social distancing with maintaining a healthy lifestyle which will lower the growth of the viral infection. This study aims to evaluate and assess the considerable changes in the mobility pattern and travel behavior of the residents of Lahore during lockdown which have slow down the virus’ spread. The mobility patterns were studied through Google database 1 in the form of google mobility reports. Data obtained from the COVID-19 website of Pakistan was examined by GIS and converted into statistical data comprising of graphs and figures by authors. The findings of this research are that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a profound impact on transportation and air quality in Lahore, resulting in changes in travel behavior, reduced traffic congestion, and improved air quality, which have both positive and negative effects on public health and the environment. These findings indicate that the implementation of air quality control plans can lead to a significant improvement in air quality in Pakistan. However, the economic hardships caused by the pandemic also need to be addressed. This research shows that the public can adapt to changes in policies and travel behaviors during the pandemic. These implications can be applied to design more sustainable transportation policies in the future.