A COMPARISON OF BUS OPERATIONS IN CITIES OF DEVELOPED AND DEVELOPING COUNTRIES

This article reviews the demand for public transport in third world cities. Some of the factors affecting demand are examined, comparing them with conditions in the developed world. Special problems facing public transport operators in developing countries and their economic climate are outlined. The low levels of car ownership in most cities of developing countries make it essential that an adequate public transport system exists particularly in urban areas where there is a heavy reliance on buses. The authors analyse trends in bus usage indicating a growing demand for public transport in cities during recent years. However, in many countries, governmental support has been minimal, and in some cases successful bus operators have been penalised by taxation. Although operating costs per kilometre are lower in the UK revenues are also much lower and a larger demand is associated with a lower level of service. The total numbers of buses available per head in underdeveloped cities is much lower than that in those of Europe and North America. The aims of current research are outlined. (TRRL)