Behind the Congestion of the Sungailiat–Pangkalpinang Corridor: Public Transportation Crisis and Inequality in Mobility Access

Abstract

The Sungailiat–Pangkalpinang corridor represents one of the main mobility routes in the Province of Kepulauan Bangka Belitung. However, the increasing dependence on private vehicles has intensified congestion and reduced equitable access to transportation. This study aims to analyze the public transportation crisis and its implications for mobility inequality along the corridor. The research employs a qualitative descriptive approach, drawing on literature reviews and secondary statistical data from the Central Statistics Agency (BPS), transportation studies, policy documents, and relevant academic literature. The findings indicate that the decline in public transportation services, including limited operational coverage, unreliable service, and inadequate integration with other modes, has led communities to rely heavily on motorcycles and private cars. This condition contributes not only to traffic congestion but also to unequal mobility accessibility, particularly for lower-income communities and individuals without private vehicles. Furthermore, transportation development policies remain predominantly oriented toward road expansion rather than strengthening inclusive public transportation systems. The study concludes that transportation problems in the Sungailiat– Pangkalpinang corridor reflect broader structural issues related to accessibility inequality and weak regional transportation governance. Therefore, sustainable transportation reform, including improving public transportation accessibility, service quality, and integrated mobility planning, is necessary to support equitable regional development.