Agglomeration Around High-Speed Railway Stations

Abstract

Introduction of high-speed railway (HSR) stations could generate agglomeration but the magnitude of the effect is still an empirical question. This study takes advantage of the availability of satellite data and the rapid expansion of HSR networks in China. We find that new HSR stations raise night-time light intensity, population density and the built-up area within a 2 km buffer zone by 8.14%, 15.56% and 37.07%, respectively, resulting in substantial agglomeration. County-level cities benefit most from new HSR stations and residents may move from downtown areas to HSR station buffer zones.

Keywords: High-speed railways, Population density, Night-time light, Built-up area, Buffer zones