User Preferences and Traffic Impact Evaluation of Bus Rapid Transit System for a Medium-Sized City

Abstract

Recognizing the problem of urban transport, a number of cities are coming up with mass transit proposals. Amongst the domain of high capacity public transport systems available, Bus Rapid Transit System (BRTS) with dedicated bus lanes is one of the viable options. BRTS will create a high-quality public transport to enhance the mobility pattern and demonstrate that protection of environmental conditions, energy savings, reduction in road accidents, etc. This study examines applicability of BRTS for a medium-sized city like Visakhapatnam. The ridership improvement upon introduction of BRTSis collected through a stated preference survey. The modal shift improvement from personalized vehicles is predicted. The present study analyzes the travel behavior of the people in the selected study area. The results identified a qualitative difference in the choice of people in preferring the mode based on their income levels, travel cost, and purpose of the trip. The end results will be applicable in determining the fare structure and enhancing the existing system.