Why informal transport is key to getting around Medellín, Colombia

What is it about?

This study examines how well public transport serves residents in Medellín, Colombia, with a special focus on semiformal minibus systems alongside the formal public transport network. Using a UN Habitat indicator for walking distance to transport, we measure how accessible public transport is for different communities across the city. We compare three different population data sources and explore how accessibility differs based on socio-economic status, settlement types (formal vs. informal), and the role of semiformal transportation services. Our findings show that semiformal minibuses are vital for connecting residents, especially those in poorer or informal areas, where formal transport services often fall short.

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Photo by Emmanuel Appiah on Unsplash

Photo by Emmanuel Appiah on Unsplash

Why is it important?

This work highlights that semiformal and informal transport systems play a crucial role in providing mobility to underserved communities, a reality often overlooked in traditional transport planning. Our study shows that relying solely on formal transport expansions may leave significant gaps in accessibility, particularly for residents of informal settlements and those with lower socio-economic status. These insights emphasize the need for more inclusive urban transport strategies that recognize and integrate semiformal systems into broader planning efforts, helping to advance social and spatial equity in growing cities.

Perspectives