Modelling the Effect of Socio-economic Characteristics on Trip Generation by the Physically Challenged People (PCP) in Minna, Nigeria.

Abstract

The socio-economic capacity and ability of individuals plays a major role in their trip generation to various activities centres across the urban space. However, this may vary from able bodies individuals to disabled and vulnerable people in the society. The need to investigate how socio-economic characteristics of Physically Challenged People (PCP) determine their trip generation informed this research. To carry out this study, a questionnaire survey from which data were gathered on the socio-economic and mobility attributes of the disabled. Structured questionnaires were purposively administered to 203 respondents (crippled and blind) in 4 Motor parks/terminals and 4 designated bus stops along the major traffic corridors selected in Minna. Descriptive and inferential statistics were used for data analysis. Findings revealed that 61.6% of respondents were male, 41.9% were within 15-30years, 39.9% were singles, and 43.8% have no formal education while 41.4% were engaged in the informal sector of the economy. The step-wise regression technique used to ascertain the influence of socio-economic characteristics on trip generation. Findings revealed that age, gender, marital status, occupation and income have significant influence on disabled trip generation but with a very weak R2 of 17% explaining the variation in disabled people trips generation. This implies that socio-economic characteristics of disabled people do not play a significant role in their mobility in Minna. The paper suggested that paratransit transport system and infrastructure design and development should consider the peculiar needs of people with disabilities.