Power relations in the development of bus rapid transit in Quito, Ecuador

This paper explores how the exercise of power in transport planning practices can lead into the exclusion of certain segments of the population by not considering their ideas into the planning process. The exercise of power is analysed using mechanisms of analysis developed by Foucault which are introduced to critically examine the planning process of the first BRT lines in Quito. A mix method approach is used, first a qualitative analysis is implemented which comprises interviews with key decision makers including, amongst others, former mayors and former heads of the planning and implementation teams. A GIS approach is used to identify places in cities where disparity between transport provision and transport needs of the population are found. Power is exercised dynamically at the beginning of the planning process, incorporating different knowledges and bringing high levels of innovation. The decisions taken to tackle the challenges of mobility and accessibility leave certain key actors out of the planning process, leading to the exclusion of certain segments of the population. In the context of the BRT planning process in Quito, friendship has an important role to play for the incorporation of specific knowledges, while leaving others out of the discussion. A successful team of planners, leave a highly acclaimed transport systems, however there is still space for incorporating different knowledges in order to keep more dynamic and more equitable power relations.