Many developing cities have severe traffic problems, with bus services affected by congestion. A mass transit system operating on segregated track can increase the attractiveness and quality of public transport. A sound investment strategy is essential, especially in countries with limited financial resources. There are three main options for mass transit: metros, which have a high capacity, but at extremely high cost; busways, which have good carrying capacity, and flexibility, and are cheap to install, but have a poor image; Light Rapid Transit (LRT), thought by some to offer an intermediate solution with lower costs than a metro, but with a better image and higher capacity than a busway. This paper This paper examines the technical capabilities of these options, and considers other factors influencing their implementation. (A)
Abstract