ASSESSMENT OF THE EFFECTIVENESS OF TRICYCLE AS A MEANS OF PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM IN URBAN KATSINA, KATSINA STATE, NIGERIA

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Abstract

This study assessed the effectiveness of tricycles as a means of public transportation in urban Katsina, Katsina State, Nigeria. A purposive sampling technique was employed to select the busiest tricycle terminals within the urban area. A total of 171 questionnaires were  systematically administered to registered tricycle operators, while 342 questionnaires were  purposively distributed to tricycle users. The data collected were analysed using both descriptive and inferential statistical methods. The findings indicated that safety, reliability, accessibility, comfort, and efficiency are the most significant service quality attributes associated with tricycle transportation in urban Katsina. Additionally, the study identified overloading and low carrying capacity as the primary challenges faced by tricycle users. Based on these findings, the study recommends that regulatory bodies, such as the Katsina State 
Safety and Road Traffic Authority (KASROTA) and the Federal Road Safety Corps (FRSC), should enforce appropriate sanctions on tricycle operators who violate safety regulations, particularly those involved in overloading. Penalties could include monetary fines or temporary seizure of the vehicle for a minimum of one week, to serve as a deterrent to others. Furthermore,  the study suggests that the current capacity of tricycles should be upgraded to accommodate a higher number of passengers. An increase in the number of tricycles available is also recommended to enhance the overall effectiveness and efficiency of this mode of transportation 
within the study area.