Spatial analysis of changes in public transport passengers as a result of the Corona pandemic in the suburbs of Mashhad

The present study was designed to investigate the spatial variations of public transport passengers before and after Corona in the metropolitan area of ​​Mashhad. For this purpose, after conducting documentary studies, descriptive information about the volume of public transport passengers was obtained from Mashhad Bus Organization separately from each station, and at the same time with preparing a spatial map of the stations, a spatial database was formed. The period under study includes before Corona (March 1997 to February 1998) and after Corona (March 1998 to September 2010). Spatial differences before and after Corona were determined using classical and spatial statistics methods. The results showed significant differences in changes before and after corona. On the other hand, showing the differences showed that in rural areas with a long distance from the city of Mashhad in the west and northwest, unlike other areas, the volume of movements after Corona has increased. Using geographical regression model also showed that among local factors, economic characteristics related to each village show the greatest role in explaining the changes, which in some areas also explains up to 63%. Due to the demographic and economic structure of this area and their strong dependence on public transportation, methods such as closing or reducing operating hours; It brings more segregation of these villages. It is suggested that such studies, focusing on spatial analysis of changes, can assist public transportation management in redesigning programs related to this area.