Tags:COVID-19, Sri Lanka, Transport Mode Choice and Travel Behavior
Abstract:
The impact of the pandemic on travel behavior has evolved as COVID-19 progressed worldwide. The mobility patterns and the frequency of travel have significantly changed over time. This study focuses on the changes in travel behavior among residents in the Western Province of Sri Lanka, regarding their mode of transport for different trip purposes during and after the COVID-19 pandemic. To gather data, online questionnaire surveys were conducted in two phases, collecting information on trip frequencies and transport mode choices for various trip purposes. The results indicate a decrease in the utilization of public and shared transportation modes for work, school, and other trips, followed by an increase in private modes during and after the first wave. Although the shift in mobility patterns gradually decreased during the second wave, it did not return to pre-pandemic levels. Moreover, the findings reveal a transition from public transportation to alternative modes for all trip types, accompanied by a decrease in out-of-home activities during the pandemic. The most common reasons for the change in transport modes were health concerns, government regulations, and capacity constraints. These results provide insights for relevant authorities in planning for mobility needs during a pandemic like COVID-19 in the future.
Study on Variation in Mobility and Travel Behavior During the Covid-19 Pandemic: a Case Study in Western Province, Sri Lanka