Can OpenStreetMap map Brazil’s school transportation network? An analysis based on existing rural and urban routes
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.58922/transportes.v34.e3118Keywords:
OpenStreetMap. Brazil school transportation system. Brazil school transportation. Map completeness. Rural routes. OSM.Abstract
A significant challenge in planning Brazil’s school transportation system, especially in rural areas, is the lack of reliable data. Among the most critical datasets is the road network, which serves as input to numerous tasks, such as calculating walking distances and optimizing bus routes. In this context, OpenStreetMap (OSM), a free and collaborative mapping platform, offers a potential solution by providing open access to road data. However, parts of the network are missing or disconnected, particularly in rural regions. These gaps limit the effective use of OSM in transportation tools, as algorithms may fail to reach specific locations, especially in remote areas. To assess the network completeness, this study analyzed 7,159 real-world school bus routes from the Brazilian Electronic School Transport Management System. On average, 91.84% of the route’s length is covered, but only 32% of them are fully mapped by OSM (100% of its length). The most frequent gaps appear on waterway routes, mixed routes, and last-mile sections, such as local roads leading to students’ homes. Recognizing these limitations is crucial for enhancing the use of OSM in transportation tools and ensuring broader access to education for students who depend on public school transportation.
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