A research study submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the degree of Master of Science in Gender, Transportation and Development, School of Engineering and Technology

Research Studies Project Report (M. Sc.) - Asian Institute of Technology, 2010

The city has grown rapidly in recent years and new suburban satellite townships have been developed to accommodate the increasing population. People in Yangon lack some kinds of transport modes as it is illegal to drive trishaws, bicycles, and motorcycles within this crowded city. There are four main kinds of transport systems in Yangon - bus, train, taxi and private car. The vast majority of Yangon inhabitants are, to some extent, living at the poverty line which makes them unable to afford a private transport. People depend on the only public transportation that affects their working time they have to spend time to walk to arrive at bus stops. The objective of this research is to study the available public transport options, analyze the daily mobility of women and men and identify related problems. Sanchaung Township which belongs to Yangon West District was selected. The finding of the research reveals that buses often arrive with irregular times. Careless bus drivers are also a part of difficulties in traveling. Bus fares are expensive in women{u2019}s opinions. Bus conditions are low with regards to seats, air conditioners, bus running times, bus breakdown. People need more safety at bus stops. Men do more mobility than women. Women choose a cheaper way in their travel. In a week men spend more time to travel both by bus and walking than women do. This may be caused by some of differences in restrictions of mobility between the both sexes. Women in general have higher vulnerability to embarrassing moments. IMTs are also highlighted in facilitating mobility not only in the area and also the neighboring areas and creating more possibilities for jobs, leisure and studies. Some suggestions in improving the bus systems are provided for people{u2019}s choices such as deployment of more buses, creation of more long distance bus routes, suspension of reckless drivers{u2019} licenses, provision of training to bus fare collectors about morality and ethics, and opportunity for women to become fare collectors.