Best public transport options for different city scales: a comprehensive assessment using the Best Worst-based TOPSIS Method

This paper aims to provide a comparative evaluation of public transport options for two cities of different scales. The study utilizes the Best Worst Method (BWM) based on the TOPSIS and also conventional economic assessment techniques. This comprehensive evaluation takes into account both monetary and non-monetary impacts of public transport. The results of the study indicate that in terms of conventional economic assessment, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) and tram systems are profitable for Eskişehir (small & medium-sized city), while all systems are profitable for Istanbul (metropolis city). These results suggest that public transport options for small & medium-sized cities are limited and the wrong public transport system selection can lead to significant economic losses. Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of public transport for metropolis cities, as each system has diverse and crucial economic effects. According to the findings of BWM, the research highlights relationship between capacity, technology and economy-budget. Also, the study shows the positive impact of rail systems on the urban image-prestige, as many governments prefer rail systems due to their positive association with urban development. Conversely, BRT systems are negatively affected in terms of urban image due to their indirect relationship with buses. The vehicle cost comparison between rail system vehicles and BRT vehicles further supports this observation. Ranking and the best option were listed as BRT, metro, LRT, monorail and tram for two city-sized, according to Best Worst-based TOPSIS results. In conclusion, this study provides valuable insights into the comparative evaluation of public transport systems for two cities of different scales. It emphasizes the need for careful consideration of monetary and non-monetary impacts when selecting the most suitable public transport option. The findings can assist policymakers and urban planners in making informed decisions regarding public transport infrastructure.