Public transport planning : upgrading bus services under the consideration of reliability, speed, comfort, economy, accessibility, information, safety and environmental issues

Abstract

The number of cars on the roads of Malta is increasing rapidly causing deficiencies in the road transportation systems, damage to the environment, severe consequences to health and restrictions impairing economy growth. More investment in road infrastructure by building new roads would simply encourage more the use of the private car, on the other hand upgrading public transport would encourage the reversing of the present trends. The scope of this dissertation is to identify the deficiencies in the local bus services, analyse good practice examples in foreign countries and recommend the necessary changes that need to be done. The study considers the network planning process from how to analyse the demand to the process by which efficient networks and schedules should be devised. Practical recommendations are given for the creation of efficient bus lanes on the existing road network, with a particular focus on the path to Valletta. This dissertation considers also the design of bus stops and bus termini. Figures of practical design examples are given and recommendations regarding their siting and facilities required are included. A particular reference is made to Valletta main terminus. Three ticketing methods to be used simultaneously are suggested to give incentives to the more regular users and to reduce boarding time. A consideration is given to the criteria that need to be considered when replacing the existing buses. Finally the dissertation considers the social legislation that is required to improve the working conditions of the bus drivers, their training and qualifications.