ABSTRACT

The transportation sector has been severely crippled by the COVID-19 crisis in India. Due to the strict enforcement of a nation-wide lockdown, the operators of long-distance transport in India by road, rail, and air have suffered leading to loss of jobs and pay cuts. As the year 2020 reaches an end, the severity of the pandemic began to subside and the common modes of long-distance travel such as trains, flights, buses, and taxis are now operational up to some extent. However, people are exercising caution while traveling amidst the pandemic, especially long-distance travel. This study aims to understand the mind-set and behavior of individuals traveling long-distances amidst the pandemic, also referred to as the ‘New Normal.’ Hence, a user opinion survey was conducted to comprehend the probable impact of COVID-19 on long-distance travel in India. The results revealed a significant change in the respondents’ travel behavior and frequency of travel. The travel by air and own car are being preferred over other modes of transport. ‘Comfort and Hygiene’ is now the most important factor that affects the mode choice of travel followed by the cost and travel time.

摘要

印度的 COVID-19 危机严重削弱了交通运输业。由于在全国范围内严格执行封锁，印度的公路、铁路和航空长途运输运营商遭受损失，导致失业和减薪。随着2020年的结束，疫情的严重性开始消退，火车、飞机、公交车、出租车等常见的长途出行方式已经在一定程度上投入使用。但是，人们在大流行中旅行，尤其是长途旅行时要谨慎行事。这项研究旨在了解在大流行（也称为“新常态”）中长途旅行的个人的心态和行为。因此，进行了一项用户意见调查，以了解 COVID-19 对印度长途旅行的可能影响。结果显示，受访者的出行行为和出行频率发生了显着变化。与其他交通方式相比，乘坐飞机和自驾出行更受青睐。“舒适和卫生”现在是影响出行方式选择的最重要因素，其次是成本和出行时间。