A Spatial Analysis of the Efficiency and Sufficiency of Fuel Filling Stations in Balad District Using GIS

Abstract

The titled research, "Spatial Analysis of Efficiency and Sufficiency of Fuel Filling Stations in Balad District," aims to provide a detailed overview of the spatial distribution of fuel filling stations in the study area for the year 2021. It seeks to determine their efficiency, sufficiency, and spatial implications using the contemporary applied approach that relies on Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The study originated from the problem of assessing the spatial distribution efficiency of fuel filling stations in the study area and whether the use of GIS technology can contribute to measuring the spatial distribution efficiency of these stations to achieve current and future sustainable local development.                                        

The research adopted an inductive methodology that starts with particulars and ends with generalizations, utilizing both quantitative and comparative analysis methods to interpret the efficiency of fuel filling station distribution in the study area and to reach precise and specific results. By leveraging GIS technology in mapping and conducting spatial analysis operations, the research aims to assist the researcher in understanding and analyzing the distributional characteristics to investigate the results and develop solutions.       

The study found clear deficiencies and flaws in the spatial distribution of fuel filling stations, leading to an irregular distribution pattern trending towards randomness. The calculated value of R was 0.70, indicating a weakened service provision for current locations. Additionally, only 29.83% of the total area of the district and approximately 67.83%, 34.48%, and 17.47% of the total area of its regions (Balad District Center, Yathrib Region, and Al-Is'haqi Region, respectively) are served within the current buffering range of 3 km. This highlights the extent of the shortfall in ideal coverage of this type of service despite the current surplus in distribution compared to the population size according to planning standards. The study recommends considering areas outside the current buffering range within the administrative units of the study area and taking them into account in the current redistribution or suggesting new fuel filling station locations.