Women Perceptions in Transient Environments and the Need for AI to Drive Safer Travel: An Inclusive Mobility Study in India

Abstract

Women of all ages face higher risks than men when travelling and during public transport waiting times. This risk is higher for women living in India than their counterparts residing in the Western world. The primary objective of this study was to understand women’s perception of safety while travelling in India and how it affects their travel behaviour. A mobility survey was designed to cover various aspects of travel, such as travel experience, built environment characteristics, and their impact on women’s safety perception. The subjective data was examined to explore the link between safety perception, built environment, and changes in travel behaviour. Respondents consider that security and safety are the top two factors influencing women’s travel mode in their everyday journeys in India. The present study also found that over 80% of women are likely to change their travel behaviour after experiencing fear, anxiety, or danger during their everyday journeys. These findings have important implications for policy and best practice regarding safer and more gender-inclusive transport provision.