International Journal of Transport Development and

Integration
Vol. 7, No. 3, September, 2023, pp. 247-255
Journal homepage: http://iieta.org/journals/ijtdi

Multivariate Spatial Parameters Analysis for Estimate Essentially Fuel Station Location in
Al-Mahaweel City Toward Urban Sustainability
Baydaa Abdul Hussein Bedewy1* , Sophia Rezaq Ali Al-Timimy2
1
Environmental Planning Department, College of Physical Planning, University of Kufa, Al-Kufa 54001, Iraq
2
Al-Shatrah Technical Institute, Southern Technical University, Thi-Qar, Al-Shatrah 64007, Iraq

Corresponding Author Email: [email protected]

https://doi.org/10.18280/ijtdi.070308 ABSTRACT

Received: 12 May 2023 This paper's significance lies in investigating the multivariate spatial parameters of the
Revised: 10 June 2023 service sites for gas stations according to predetermined standards and their spatial location
Accepted: 17 June 2023 to identify the best place for such services. The present study focuses on fueling stations in
Available online: 27 September 2023 Al-Mahaweel City, located in the Babylon Province of Iraq. This case study aims to
analyze the problem of inefficiency and inadequacy in serving the fuel stations inside the
city. These issues have significant economic and environmental repercussions, ultimately
Keywords: affecting urban sustainability. For this purpose, a spatial database by Geographic
Geographic Information System (GIS), Information System (GIS) is used to analyze basic services such as hospitals, schools, and
transportation system, fuel stations, spatial others. As well as agriculture, industry, and residential uses. All that is about to derive the
dimension, fuel risks, urban sustainability relevant criteria for the organization of the district center, which facilitates analysis and
evaluation of their current location. The study results indicated the need for stations within
an efficient spatial. So, the specific locations for new filling stations would depend on
various factors (Q=4,000 square meters and W=5,000 square meters). Accordingly, this
article aims to meet demand based on the essential urban planning indicators to enhance
the ease of traffic, avoid road congestion, and promote urban sustainability.

1. INTRODUCTION location. At the same time, increased efficiency can reduce

energy consumption, carbon emissions, and pollution [10].
Transportation is a distinguishing phenomenon in cities, as Therefore, spatial considerations about geographical
movement is the artery connecting urban areas [1]. distribution are among the most important things impacting
Transportation becomes increasingly important with their efficiency [11]. Despite this, GIS combines multiple
population growth, urban expansion, and diversifying purposes in numerous applications and disciplines to help
functional activities in urban centers [2, 3]. The sub- decision-makers make the best decision as rapidly as possible.
transportation system is integral to logistical services and This is because of the essential relevance that forms a science
planning whenever vehicles transport passengers and goods concerned with gathering, processing, and analyzing
from one space to another [4]. geographic information [12-14]. This study will utilize that to
Additionally, the UN's consideration of safety on the road incorporate multivariate spatial parameters into an analysis of
in 2015 added to the list of Sustainable Development Goals the most optimal sites for fuel stations by combining spatial
(SD Goals) that unveiled how beneficial it was [5]. data and descriptive information into an integrated evaluation
So, the need for fuel stations to supply cars with motor fuel [14, 15].
is increasing [6]. Fuel stations of all types are among the most Article Problem: Inefficiencies in the areas above can lead
essential service facilities for transportation. Moreover, an to extended travel lengths, heightened waiting periods,
important service must be geographically distributed discomfort for persons seeking fuel, and diminished service
depending on the traffic flow and road density [7]. Therefore, provision for residents and tourists.
according to proper planning criteria, the spatial analysis of Article Hypothesis: Spatial analysis can choose the
these station's locations is linked to fair service provision, appropriate location for fuel stations to improve transportation
which affects economic, environmental, and social factors and, efficiency and effectiveness and reduce energy losses towards
thus, urban sustainability [8]. urban sustainability.
They achieve a suitable level of traffic flow and ease of Article Objective: An optimal spatial location for fuel
transportation between cities, provinces within the country, stations can be selected by analyzing multivariate spatial
and globally [9]. The location varies depending on the area or criteria. This analysis aims to meet the demand for fuel while
country you are referring to. However, in most places, fuel considering inessential urban planning indicators. The primary
stations are typically found along major highways, busy roads, objectives of this approach are to improve traffic flow, prevent
or urban areas. They may also be near shopping centers, congestion on roads, ensure the safety of citizens, mitigate
airports, or truck stops. Additionally, you can use navigation pollution, and foster urban sustainability.
apps or websites to find nearby fuel stations specific to your

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2. METHODOLOGY car traffic, fuel stations are a primary source within the street
network as they supply vehicles with fuel [17]. Fuel stations
The comparison analysis suggests that the publication likely catering to cars and trucks might have larger fueling bays and
presented procedural guidelines to enhance gasoline station pumps capable of quickly dispensing large fuel volumes.
spatial distribution. The proposals potentially encompassed They may also offer amenities and services like
several tactics aimed at finding appropriate locations for new convenience stores, car wash facilities, and restrooms to
stations, formulating rules for the placement of gasoline accommodate drivers and passengers [18, 19]. Consequently,
stations, and devising incentives to encourage fuel providers the effect on the economy and environment [15].
to extend their services in regions that lack sufficient coverage.
The article utilized a comparative analysis approach to 3.1 The importance of fuel stations
examine planning criteria and indicators to provide
recommendations for addressing the problems associated with The importance of fuel stations can be summarized below:
the inadequate regulation of fuel events in the city. A GIS was • Providing services efficiently is related to the
employed to analyze the optimal locations for suggested fuel efficient operation of high stations due to the spatial
stations, as shown in Figure 1. distribution, making them an important part of the
transportation system (the sub-system).
• It was considered new within the commercial field
due to its various services, such as filling all kinds of
fuel, changing oils, changing tire workshops,
maintenance workshops, etc.
• Filling stations are among the activities and services
that have a great economic impact on the life of the
city and society. Therefore, planning for this service
is a necessity imposed by the need of developing
countries to advance at a wider pace, with less waste,
and with the greatest return [18].

3.2 Fuel station risks

The fuel sold at fuel stations of all types is a marketable

commodity that falls within the retail trade due to the
increasing demand from investors to establish fuel stations
[19]. Besides, the large number of fuel stations located in
residential neighborhoods poses significant risks with impacts
on workers and people in general [12, 20].
It is known that fuel is a highly flammable substance,
whether in gas or liquid form. Additionally, fuel-filled tanks
in fuel stations are temporary ready-to-explode bombs once
the triggering factor is present. In the event of an explosion, it
can lead to a disaster due to environmental impacts that were
not considered [21, 22]. The responsible authorities still need
to ensure safety elements from environmental and spatial
perspectives [20].

4. ACTUAL ANALYSIS

4.1 Worksite
Figure 1. Methodology
The study area includes the Al-Mahaweel in Babylon, Iraq.
That lies in longitudes (45°6' 40''-44°20' '50'' E) and latitudes
3. FUEL STATIONS
(32°49' 20''-32°25' 20'' N). The district is about 20 km north
of Al-Hilla City and 80 km from Baghdad [23, 24]. The total
Fuel stations are designed to align with the unique
area covered was about 1667 km2, which accounts for 33% of
characteristics and fueling requirements of different types of
Babylon province's total area almost (5119 km 2). The district
transportation means, ensuring they have the necessary
comprises four administrative units: Al-Mahaweel, Al
resources to operate efficiently [10, 14]. Besides, they serve as
Mashru', Al-Imam, and Al- Nile [25], as shown in Figure 2.
starting stations to distribute traffic flow directions [16]. For

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 Figure 2. Al-Mahaweel centre, ArcGIS 10.6

4.2 Demographic information Separating sub-districts from the main district disrupts service
distribution and the available range. Table 2 shows three fuel
Demographic data provides information about the area's stations that offer petroleum products.
population size, density, growth, and organizational
settlements. Studying population characteristics and growth Table 2. Fuel in Al-Mahaweel according
rates is essential for understanding the future impact on the to units in (2021)
provision of fuel stations. By analyzing population trends, we
can make informed decisions about fuel station locations, Administrative-Unit Num. of Filling Station
identify underserved areas, adapt to changing transportation Mahaweell 3.00
trends, and anticipate future demand. This knowledge allows Nele sub-district 3.00
fuel station providers to offer better services that align with the Imaim sub-districts 1.00
Totally 7.00
population's natural growth and cater to their customers'
Sources: directorate of oil/statistics (2021), (unpublishing data)
evolving needs [26], as shown in Table 1.

Table 1. People in Al-Mahaweel in (1987, 1997, 2021)

Administrative - Unit Period Population

1987 42,326
Mahaweel D.C. 1997 74,480
2021 131,556
Source: population estimates for 1987, 1997, and 2022

From Table 1, the demographic change shows that the

population increased after 1997 due to the natural growth of
the Al-Mahaweel region [26]. As a result, the Al-Nile sub-
district was added to the Al-Mahaweel district.

4.3 Fuel stations survey Figure 3. Ratios of stations in the area, based on the data
provided in Table 1
Fuel stations are spread throughout Al-Mahaweel District,
encompassing the government and private sectors. The Figure 3 above illustrates that Al-Mahaweel has a low
existence of only three stations in this district has caused percentage of filling stations, which contradicts the
disruptions and challenges in service delivery efficiency due importance of its administrative and geographical location.
to administrative expansions and changes in the districts. The district is a significant transit area connecting Babylon
province with provinces, making it more crucial and requiring

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fully-equipped fuel stations. The station data is presented in amounted to 33%, indicating an imbalanced ratio between the
detail based on ownership, location, and products available, as types.
in Table 3 and Figure 2.

4.4 Classification of fuel stations

Table 3. Classification in Al-Mahaweel City according to

ownership

Administrative-
Names Types Boundarie
Units
Al-Alriyfia
Private sector Out
station
Mahaweel D.C. Mahaweel Government Within the
station sector boundary
AL-Athar Private-sector Out
Sources: Directorate of oil Stations Statistic for (2021), unpublished data
Figure 4. Ratio of stations according to ownership
Table 3 and Figure 4 show that the majority percentage
consists of private stations, which accounted for Figure 5 shows the analysis of filling in districts and sub-
approximately 67%, distributed across the district center. districts, Al-Nile and Al-Imam, and their impact on the center
Following that, the percentage of government-owned stations of Al-Mahaweel district.

Figure 5. Refueling stations in Al-Mahaweel district and neighboring centers, ArcGIS 10.6

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4.5 Offered products Reducing differences in levels of development through the
organization of multiple actions, directing the locations of
Table 4 and Figure 6 show filling stations and product events and development efforts, and policies and strategies
processing. that integrate economic, social, political, and cultural factors
Table 4. Offered product can lead to sustainable and inclusive spatial outcomes,
ensuring that the spatial dimension meets the diverse needs
Station
Products and aspirations of individuals and communities. And in
Station High particular, environmental, to achieve sustainable development.
Property Gaso. Gas. Kaz. Oil.
Octane Therefore, the organization of land uses leads to a spatial
Al-alriyfia balance of services and increases efficiency within the same
Priv. sector * * *
station urban area. This is the reason for choosing the optimal location
Al-mahaweel
Gov. sector * * * for gas stations. Considering the spatial dimension as a basis
station
Al-waseem for service provision helps ensure that services are efficiently
Priv. sector * * * delivered and accessible to the community; service providers
station
Source: Directorate /Petroleum Stations for 2021, unpublished data can tailor their strategies to meet the population's diverse needs
and provide efficient and effective services.
C) Determining the optimal location
The analysis environment plays a crucial role in designating
areas for land use and other services. It involves data collection,
GIS technology, spatial analysis techniques, policy
consideration, stakeholder engagement, and evaluating trade-
offs. By employing a comprehensive analysis environment,
informed decisions can be made to designate areas that meet
the community's needs while considering various constraints
and objectives, as shown in Figure 7. The range of buffer zone
for each service is determined, and the distances of the stations
from it are indicated, as shown in Figure 8. The analysis area
was the optimal location from the analysis layer to determine
Figure 6. Filling stations and product processing, the model site for the station based on the criteria shown in
based on Table 4 Figure 9. The ideal station estimated location is chosen in
Figure 10, as shown in Tables 6 and 7.
4.6 Multivariate spatial parameter analysis In Figure 7, survey the land use in Al- Mahaweel district to
spatial optimal location analysis.
The preceding data has been analyzed using the In Figure 8, drawing the rings as an index of multivariate
comparative analysis method based on the Ministry of Oil's location parameters from Table 5 and location index Survey to
2015 standards, dividing the standards into criteria for stations land use Figure 7 in Al-Mahaweel district.
located within and outside municipal boundaries, as per In Figure 9, shown is the analysis for reducing suitable areas
experts and decision-makers, as shown in Table 5. for optimal location with the city's land use.
A) Oil's standards within and out of the boundaries In Figure 10, the spatial location analysis results show the
B) Optimal fuel station location best (estimated stations Q and W) as the best location for
providing adequate service as spatial location analysis.

Table 5. Oil's standards for stations

Criterions Cursors The Index

In the Boundarie
Residential uses The distances (40) M
People For (60,000) people (2)
Community- service The distances from (the school, hospital, and mosque) (100) M
Road networks Distances to traffic intersection (1,000) M
Arrival distances The beneficiary's distances (1,600) M
Distances of the stations from each other Distances on the same streets (750) M
Out Boundarie
Distances from each other Distances in same administrative units (10) KM
Distances from high electrical pressures area (10) M
Distances from the electrically line
Distances from low electrical pressures area (5) M
Source: Regulations and conditions for establishing updated fuel stations for the year 2015 for the Ministry of Oil, published data

251
Figure 7. Al-Mahaweel district reality present survey land use, ArcGIS 10.6

Figure 8. Buffer zone for multivariate parameter locations

in the Al-Mahaweel district, ArcGIS 10.6

252
Figure 9. Spatial optimal locations analysis to get estimated station in the Al-Mahaweel district, ArcGIS 10.6

Figure 10. Estimated stations for Al-Mahaweel district, ArcGIS 10.6

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 Table 6. Evaluate estimated station Q in the capital area of Al-Mahaweel district according to the ministry of oil's standards

Station Q Indexes The Standards Index Evaluation to Standard

The Spaces 4,000 2,000 M2 or more Match the standard
Distances to the residential uses 40 M 40 M Match the standard
Distances from the (school, hospital and health center) 100 M 100 M Match the standard
Industrial use 55 M 40 M Match the standard
Distance the station 1,125 M 750 M Match the standard
Arrival distances 1,600 M 1,600 M Match the standard
The dimensions of Administrative uses 100 M 100 M Match the standard

Table 7. Evaluate estimated station W in the capital area of Al-Mahaweel district according to the ministry of oil's standards

Station W Indexes The Standards Index Evaluation to Standard

The Spaces 5,000 2,000 M2 or more match the standards
Distances to the housing units 40 M 40 M matches the standard
Industrial uses 40 M 100 M matches the standard
Distances (school, hospital and health center) 100 M 40 M matches the standard
Distance between the station 985 M 750 M matches the standard
Arrival distances 1,600 M 1,600 M matches the standard
The dimensions from Administrative uses 100 M 100 M matches the standard

As evaluation (estimated stations Q and W) according to the location for the gas stations. It thus achieves the
standard index as a distance to the service as a school, hospital, hypothesis of research in reducing the distance traveled
or another sector as industrial or residential use. So, this station and thus achieving urban sustainability.
was in the range of the index. According to the calculation, the
distance between the station and the distance of arrival was
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