Ranking barriers and optimum solutions to implement public bicycle-sharing system in cities

Abstract

Decision makers around the world adopted public bicycle-sharing systems (PBSS) due to their easy access at major strategic locations and user-friendly operations. The documented studies identify various barriers and solutions for PBSS, however, studies on identification of optimum solution for varied conditions are limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to rank the barriers and solutions for PBSS implementation for Indian urban areas. The framework is robust so that the methodology can apply globally. Initially, 31 PBSS barriers and 14 solutions were identified after reviewing literature and assessment from professionals. Then two multi-criteria decision-making methods were integrated to rank barriers and solutions for Indian cities using an expert opinion survey. The result shows that infrastructure barriers of the city, social barrier for cycling and travel characteristics barriers have more impact in the main criteria, whereas the presence of exclusive bicycle lanes, government policies and the provision of modified and e-bicycles are found to be the most optimum solutions and have potential to overcome the influence of barriers. The outcome of this research will help various stakeholders to develop pro-cycling policies, make decisions on financial resource allocation, understand the existing barriers and solutions.