Identifying and modeling the latent individuals’ variables affecting intracity rail mode choice

Today, the development of urbanization and the trend of increasing population in cities and the growing dependence of citizens on private cars, has caused many problems such as congestion increased accidents and environmental pollution. One of the most basic proposed solutions to the problem of congestion and air pollution in the world is the use of city trains as a means of public transport. In order to enjoy the benefits of this travel method as much as possible, it is necessary to know the factors influencing its choice. In the present study, from the theory of behavioral inclination and using the information of 260 questionnaires distributed among users of Tehran city train line 2 (Sadeghieh-Farhangsara) and applying the method of structural equations to identify hidden factors affecting the choice of transportation system Tehran city rail is launched. The results indicate the positive effect of four latent variables of service quality, perceived value, engagement, and satisfaction on behavioral desire. This means that with the increase of each of these variables, the behavioral tendency of people to use line 2 of the Tehran city train increases. Among the mentioned variables, the conflict has the most, and perceived value has the least effect on behavioral tendency. The results of this study can be used by transportation policymakers to encourage more people to use the city train and enjoy its benefits.