Assessing Urban Sustainability with Geospatial Technologies: Mapping Public Transport Accessibility in Casablanca to Support SDG 11.2

Abstract

Geospatial technologies play a crucial role in advancing sustainable urban development. This study presents a comprehensive geospatial analysis of public transport accessibility in the city of Casablanca, Morocco. We used open-source data and the cloud-processing capabilities of Google Earth Engine (GEE), in alignment with Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 11.2. Our results reveal pronounced spatial disparities in transport accessibility, with central areas having significantly better access than peripheral regions. Notably, 80% of the population resides within a SOO-meter walking distance to public transport. Moreover, several peripheral zones were identified as transport deserts, with limited access. These findings emphasize the need for targeted infrastructure improvements to bridge connectivity gaps and ensure equitable access for all residents. This study provides a practical framework for policymakers and urban planners in rapidly urbanizing cities, showcasing the potential of geospatial technologies to support sustainable development goals.