Examining the Multifaceted Role of Metro Rail Systems in Shaping Sustainable and Equitable Developing Cities
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.64229/p3w26m49Keywords:
Metro Rail Systems, Urban Infrastructure, Developing Cities, Public Transportation, Land-Use Integration, GentrificationAbstract
The unprecedented pace of urbanization in the Global South presents monumental challenges for city planners and policymakers. Developing cities are often characterized by severe traffic congestion, spatial fragmentation, environmental degradation, and deepening socio-economic inequalities. This paper argues that high-capacity public transportation infrastructure, specifically metro rail systems, are not merely logistical solutions to traffic woes but are fundamental, transformative investments that act as the central arteries for sustainable and equitable urban development. Moving beyond a purely transportation-centric view, this article employs a multidisciplinary framework to analyze the multifaceted impacts of metro systems. It investigates their role in (a) catalyzing economic growth and reshaping urban form, (b) promoting environmental sustainability and climate resilience, (c) fostering social equity and enhancing community connectivity, and (d) confronting the persistent challenges of gentrification and spatial exclusion. Through a synthesis of global case studies and existing literature, the paper demonstrates that when strategically integrated with supportive land-use policies and complementary infrastructure, metro systems can significantly enhance urban efficiency, reduce a city's ecological footprint, and improve the quality of life for its residents. The conclusion offers policy recommendations for maximizing the positive externalities of metro investments while mitigating their potential adverse effects, positioning them as a cornerstone of holistic urban and community development strategy.
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