Effect of a New Metro Station on Travel Behavior and Physical Activity in Tehran

Abstract

The aim of this research is to examine the impact of a newly established metro station on travel behavior and physical activity in Tehran, Iran. Data were collected from a convenience sample of 1403 metro users through a structured questionnaire, and a paired-sample t-test was utilized to compare commuting patterns before and after the station's implementation. The findings revealed a significant decline in the use of cars and buses for commuting to the metro station, accompanied by a notable increase in walking. Specifically, car usage halved, while the percentage of individuals walking rose dramatically from 7.1% to 55.5%. The study further indicated that the new metro station had a more substantial effect on reducing private car usage for leisure and educational trips than for work-related journeys. Remarkably, 46% of those utilizing the metro station achieved the World Health Organization's recommended levels of physical activity through walking during their commutes. In addition, the analysis showed that certain demographics—including the elderly, women, and individuals with lower educational attainment—exhibited higher average weekly walking times. The data also suggested that individuals living closer to the metro station tended to use it more frequently. With respect to body mass index, older travelers, those with higher education levels, women compared to men, and individuals who relied on buses rather than personal vehicles were less likely to be classified as obese or overweight. Some implications were outlined for policymakers and urban planners, along with limitations and directions for future studies.