Transportation Research Interdisciplinary Perspectives (Dec 2021)
Impact of virtual accessibility on out-of-home activity and travel in Indian urban context: A structural equation analysis
Abstract
The innovation in information and communication technology (ICT) by a long shot has changed people's way of life, making it more virtual than genuine. Now India is in a transition phase of adaption of virtual accessibility through an increasing online presence. Multiple initiatives by the Indian government to promote e-services and a cashless economy through mobile apps and websites have supported the shift from physical activity to online activity. According to the internet and mobile association of India (IAMAI) 2016, 69 % of internet users belong from age groups 19–35 in urban India, which establishes the need to study internet use on travel behaviour of the different socio-demographic groups. The focus is on establishing the relation between virtual accessibility, out-of-home activities, and individual mobility. The data collected for this study include the extent of ICT usage, socio-demographic variables and details of participation in activities. The analysis demonstrates the causal link; we were using the structural equation model (SEM) for analysis. Finding revealed a stronger relationship between virtual accessibility and leisure activities. High-income group households are more likely associated with great use of online activities. The younger age population uses a high degree of virtual application. The finding further revealed a negative relationship between ICT and travel. This research also highlights the mediation effect of time use for different activities between virtual accessibility and travel. This study can aid transport planners/engineers/policymakers in travel demand analysis while considering the factor (virtual accessibility) of the new technological environment.
