The Factors Influencing My Decision to Use Public Bus Services

Public transport is an essential component of any city's infrastructure, enabling efficient movement of its residents. However, despite the numerous benefits, the utilization of public buses can be significantly hindered by various factors. In my experience, the convenience and efficiency of using public transport are often overshadowed by practical and environmental considerations.

Onboard Observations and Statistics

Throughout my lifetime, I have never had the need to use public transport. The reasons behind this are multifaceted, primarily revolving around taxation and environmental concerns. The excessive taxation on the products and properties I own makes me wary of contributing to the funding of services that do not benefit me directly. Furthermore, the environmental impact of public buses, particularly the greenhouse gases emitted, is a significant drawback.

According to a study, the average speed of city transit buses is around 17 miles per hour (mph), consuming approximately 4242 British Thermal Units (BTU) per passenger mile. This information raises serious questions about the efficiency and environmental impact of public transportation. Considering my observations, the number of passengers on the city buses I have seen recently is severely low, with the last two buses I observed carrying just a single passenger.

Reasons for Avoiding Public Buses

There are several reasons why I, and potentially others, avoid using public buses on a regular basis:

Distance to Service: In my area, there is no public bus service within a 27-mile radius. This absence of service is a significant deterrent to using public transport, as it limits the practicality of relying on it for daily travel needs. Increased Journeys: In circumstances where there is an increased need for travel, such as more work or personal commitments, the availability of public transport does not meet the demand. Weather Conditions: Adverse weather conditions often lead me to opt for public transport over walking or cycling. While these modes of transport may be more convenient, they are less reliable in unfavorable weather.

Desired Improvements for Public Bus Services

While I do not currently use public buses, there are several improvements that would make me more likely to use them:

Reduced Walking Time: A reduced journey time by eliminating the need for a 1.5-mile walk to and from the bus stop would significantly enhance the convenience of using public transport. Fair Pricing: The cost of using a public bus should be competitive with other modes of transport, such as motorbikes. Currently, the cost of using a motorbike is lower, making it a preferable option for short to medium-distance travel. Passenger Safety and Comfort: Public buses should provide a comfortable and safe environment. The current state of public transport, where low-lifes cause aggravation and inconvenience, detracts from the overall experience. Less Frequent Transfers: Reducing the number of transfers required for long-distance travel would greatly improve my willingness to use public transport. For a 12-mile journey, changing buses twice or even three times significantly increases the overall travel time. Efficient Travel Times: The travel time for a public bus should be comparable to that of using a motorbike, taking into account the additional walking time and wait times at each transfer point.

By addressing these concerns, public transport services can become more appealing, convenient, and environmentally friendly, ultimately encouraging more individuals to use them on a regular basis.