Transit-Oriented Development in the Global South: User Perceptions of Dhaka’s MRT Line 6

Mass Rapid Transit (MRT) systems are vital for sustainable urban development in densely populated cities. Dhaka, the sixth most populous city in 2022, launched its first MRT Line 6 that year. However, the city was not built on Transit-Oriented Development (TOD) principles and is facing challenges in adopting MRT-supported systems. This study examines how demographic and socioeconomic factors shape users’ perceptions of Dhaka’s MRT by surveying 204 passengers at two stations: Bangladesh Secretariat (an institutional area) and Motijheel (a mixed-use commercial hub). Using Ordered Logistic Regression and Canonical Correlation Analysis, the results showed that income is the strongest predictor; higher-income users travel more frequently, access services more easily, and report higher satisfaction. Gender influences usage patterns, while older passengers view environmental benefits less favourably. These findings reveal persistent mobility inequalities and highlight the need for inclusive, context-sensitive MRT planning that ensures equitable access. This research supports Sustainable Development Goals 9, 10, and 11 by demonstrating how sociodemographic differences affect transit equity in rapidly growing cities.