Impacts of COVID-19 on the Transport Sector and Measures as Well as Recommendations of Policies and Future Research: A Report on SIG-C1 Transport Theory and Modelling

Abstract

COVID-19 has critically impacted many aspects of societies worldwide, particularly on people's transportation activities. This report summarizes the influences of COVID-19 pandemic, reviews existing research results, and identifies future research needs in the scope of SIG C1 in the WCTRS. We first review models on contagion spreading through transportation networks, including aggregated spatial metapopulation models and disaggregated individual-based models. We identify that further research is needed to consider both intercity and intracity mobilities and leverage emerging multiple data resources for constructing individuals' complete trip chains. Next, we discuss transport operation needs in the aftermath of COVID-19. We find that there remains a need for operating multimodal urban transport systems to satisfy people's basic travel demands while minimizing contagion risks. Relevant research needs are identified in optimizing transport operation via modern data acquisition technologies and advanced modelling methods. Last, we discuss the impacts of COVID-19 on people's travel behaviour and overall travel demand patterns. We identify relevant research methods, including data-driven methods and stated-preference survey. Practical intervention measures are also recommended to shift travel demand towards more healthy and sustainable travel modes