Towards the introduction of elements that contribute to the LRT operation sustainability through technology-based ancillary revenue

Abstract

Transportation and technology innovation is one of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) elements, and it has been outlined in goal number nine. The high demand for LRT usage requires a large amount of electricity. It contributes to the increase in electricity costs that have to be borne by LRT operators, and it is one of the main contributors to the increase in LRT operating costs. Revenue from fares unable to offset the rising operating cost. Therefore, LRT operators need to explore ancillary revenue activities to cover LRT operating costs. This paper aims to identify the elements involved in generating ancillary income through technology-based businesses from fibre optic cable networks along LRT alignment for the LRT operation sustainability. This study adopted semi-structured interviews for data collection and thematic analysis to analyse the data collected to identify the elements involved in generating ancillary revenue. Eleven themes were identified from the thematic analysis using NVivo. The list of elements involved has been proposed in this study has the potential to be a driver in generating ancillary revenue for the sustainability of LRT operations and contribute to sustainable development in achieving one of the objectives outlined in the SDGs.