1180 | 700 | Has high-speed rail reduced or widened regional inequalities- A comparative analysis

The development of high-speed rail (HSR) has been a topic of significant debate, given its high cost and mixed empirical evidence on its wider spatial impacts. While it is widely accepted that HSR can benefit a region’s capital, it remains unclear whether it reduces or widens regional inequalities beyond that. Most existing evidence is based on individual country-level analyses, with little worldwide analysis available. This paper proposes an analytical framework for panel data collection on changes in population, GDP/GVA, transport networks, accessibility, employment, and other factors in various HSR countries (the scope will be determined based on the time frame and data availability). Utilising a comparative approach, this study examines datasets from different regions and countries while considering national and geographical differences, including the spatial and temporal variations among core cities, their metropolitan areas, and wider regions. The findings will be systematically analysed, considering regional characteristics, the design and implementation of HSR systems, and the policy context. This paper aims to inform policy making and investment decisions, exploring the need for further research in the world of post-covid and new geopolitics uncertainty regarding the most effective strategies for promoting regional development and reducing regional disparities through HSR._x000D_
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Chia-Lin Chen
Department of Geography and Planning, University of Liverpool

ID Abstract: 700

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