Social dimension of transport planning

Every technology has a social imprint of the society where it evolves and also where it gets used. Transport technologies and systems are no exception. Transport technologies are used in public spaces, in the presence of intended users and non users. Urban transport systems development, planning and operations evolve to meet the mobility needs of the society. The existing patterns also reflect the prevailing social values. I would like to argue that if the planned systems do not meet the mobility needs of the most vulnerable or the "critical member" of the society, all users face sub-optimal conditions of operations and transport investments do not result in the intended mobility, safety or environment benefit. In fact the exclusive transport systems which meet the needs of the few only result in unsafe highways and urban areas including high crime rates. Therefore, recognizing social dimension as an integral part of transport planning methodologies, evaluation procedures, and infrastructure design guidelines leads to optimal solution for all.