Locating stations of shared e-scooters with integrated SWARA and maximal covering location problem

Abstract

The increasing usage of shared e-scooters has brought the issue of improper parking to the forefront. Research has shown that when parking areas are provided, the problem of improper parking can be prevented. This study aims to determine optimal parking locations for shared e-scooters in the Kad & imath;k & ouml;y district of Istanbul. A two-stage integrated approach involving Stepwise Weight Assessment Ratio Analysis (SWARA) and the maximal covering location model was employed to achieve this goal. In the first stage, e-scooter parking demand was identified, and in the second stage, 150 stations were placed that maximize the demand. The model results were compared with real data to validate the model. Decision-makers and other stakeholders can benefit from the suggested method in cases where data is unavailable or when shared e-scooter systems are being set up for the first time.