Using Open Source Data to Identify Transit Deserts in Four Major Chinese Cities

Abstract: This study investigates transit deserts in major Chinese cities, inspired by the concept of food deserts. Using open-source data, transit desert areas in Beijing, Shanghai, Wuhan, and Chengdu are identified. Key findings include: (1) Transit deserts are primarily found in city centers, unlike in developed countries such as the US. (2) Shanghai has the largest transit-dependent population in these areas, followed by Beijing, Chengdu, and Wuhan. (3) Factors like an oversized transit-dependent population and incomplete transit systems contribute to transit desert occurrences. (4) Variances in population density, travel preferences, and transportation investment policies between Chinese and American cities shape these findings. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing transit demand-supply gaps in Chinese cities.