Transport and the Megacity: Improving Vitality with Connectivity

Abstract

There is no easy answer to ensuring the world's rapid urban population growth is managed sustainably and in a manner that promotes economic growth, social cohesion, and health and wellbeing. However, densification of existing urban areas is increasingly recognised as an effective and socially responsible way for cities to accommodate growing populations and still operate as vital, vibrant spaces. The Future Spaces Foundation's Vital Cities: Transport Systems Scorecard explores how wellnetworked, safe and sustainable transport networks equip densifying cities to meet the needs of their rising and fast-changing populations. This paper uses data from the scorecard to examine the transport infrastructure and associated data networks of three large, rapidly densifying cities – Beijing, Mumbai and São Paulo – and highlight the successful measures and policies implemented between them. It includes an in-depth explanation of the scorecard's methodology, and concludes with an appeal for people-focused transport design that values safety, urban vibrancy and individual wellbeing over corporate efficiency.