Introduction to Paratransit: a neglected yet essential transport service in the Global South

Paratransit is an essential mode of transport – and often the only public transport available – in many towns and cities in the Global South.

Developed by: CODATU and MobiliseYourCity 
Level of Expertise: Fundamental  
Language: English, French and Spanish 
Keywords: Paratransit, informal transport 
Time (minimum): 1h  

Description 

Paratransit is an essential mode of transport – and often the only public transport available – in many towns and cities in the Global South. Better integrating paratransit into urban mobility systems is therefore a key challenge if we are to achieve fairer and more sustainable urban mobility for everyone.  

Improving the integration of paratransit means meeting three key challenges for the sector, which can sometimes be contradictory: optimising the efficiency and quality of the service provided; improving working conditions for operators; and controlling negative externalities, particularly in terms of environmental impact and road safety. To achieve these objectives, we must first identify the relevant levers that will enable decision-makers and experts to reform paratransit services in a manner acceptable to all stakeholders, in order to build a sustainable and inclusive mobility system. With this training materials set, you will discover why paratransit services are important, their relation with SDGs and climate action, and strategies to diagnose and reform the sector.  

Training Objectives: 

• Explain paratransit’s role to reach the SDGs and the Paris agreement.  
• Present the state of the art of paratransit and its management 
• Provide tools and methods to make a diagnosis of paratransit in a certain context 
• Propose measures to reform and professionalise the paratransit sector 

Indicative agenda 

• The Paratransit sector, what it is and its implications for sustainability  
• How to make a diagnosis of the paratransit sector?  
• A set of measures to professionalise Paratransit