Dynamics and effects of the port hinterland on mobility in Cartagena de Indias (Colombia)

Resumen

This research analyses the configuration and activities of the area of influence of the port system of Cartagena de Indias and its impact on urban mobility during the period 2018-2020. The methodology describes the dimensions of geographical scope and territorial configuration, differentiating the spatial configuration linked to the logistical specialisation of the port, and then reviews the statistics on flows of cargo vehicles and passengers accessing the land corridor in the urban area. Next, a focus group is used to assess the conflicts in the face of port operations by analysing their impact on the uses and densities of flows. The results highlight the convergence and conflicts of port flows with those of daily urban mobility, validating the hypothesis of mobility difficulties due to the intensity and proximity of port activities. Finally, improvements to the governance of the city-port interface are recommended and road infrastructure interventions are proposed and assessed.