Abstract
Many growing megacities are encountering problems with their transport infrastructures because of rapid urban development and the rise of e-commerce. In Bangkok, this strain shows itself in the city's constant traffic jams, its strong reliance on private automobiles, and the fact that the electric rail network isn't used very much. Even though passenger and freight traffic compete for the same road space and curb-side access, they are normally designed and controlled independently. These factors make it hard for the city to make transport more environmentally friendly.This study investigates whether Passenger–Freight Integration (PFIT), delivered through ride-hailing services and linked with the BTS (Bangkok Mass Transit System) Skytrain, could make better use of existing transport resources. A mixed-methods design is applied. First, a commuter survey of 400 respondents is analysed using Structural Equation Modelling (SEM) to examine the main drivers of willingness to use an integrated passenger–parcel service, with particular attention to convenience, perceived value, and reliability. Second, semi-structured interviews are used to clarify how travellers interpret fairness, service quality, and the role of ride-hailing in first- and last-mile connections. Third, the operational implications are tested using taxi GPS probe data, Google Distance Matrix travel-time estimates, and discrete-event simulation in Arena. The simulation models 72 passenger–freight scenarios across nine BTS stations and evaluates changes in vehicle kilometres travelled (VKT), carbon dioxide emissions, queuing conditions, and overall system performance.
The findings consistently provide a singular practical message: integration is most effective when tailored to the operational dynamics of the BTS. Synchronising ride-hailing services with BTS schedules and utilising off-peak rail capacity can diminish road travel duration, minimise idling and queuing, and enhance the reliability of transfers for passengers and parcels. From the user's standpoint, adoption is maximised when the service is perceived as predictable, time-efficient, and authentically seamless across modalities, rather than merely including an additional app-based step.
The study offers a practical decision-support framework for PFIT in emerging urban contexts, extending current knowledge on integrated planning, performance assessment, and first- and last-mile design. Policy directions include phased deployment, early focus on high demand BTS stations for ride-hailing links, encouragement of shared logistics models, and safeguards for equitable access. Taken together, the results suggest that PFIT is a realistic path to cleaner, more efficient, and more inclusive mobility in Bangkok and comparable fast-growing cities.
| Date of Award | 20 Apr 2026 |
|---|---|
| Original language | English |
| Awarding Institution |
|
| Supervisor | Michael Short (Supervisor), Huda Dawood (Supervisor) & Tracey Crosbie (Supervisor) |