Can buses play a mass transit role?
Let’s contrast this poor standard of services with the other extreme on the bus transport spectrum – the deluxe model in bus transport, Bus Rapid Transit (BRT). Based on the pioneering BRT model from Curitiba, Brazil, BRTs have been employed in other parts of Latin America and increasingly catching on in Europe and North America. Australasian bus systems which contain significant features of BRT include Brisbane’s South East busway, Adelaide’s O-Bahn, Sydney’s Liverpool – Paramatta transitway and Auckland’s Northern Busway. Queensland Transport is considering options for a Cairns Busway and a busway has been planned for Canberra. How is BRT different? The BRT model provides high frequency services, with high occupancy articulated buses carring up to 300 passengers. Vehicles can be gas powered, reducing emissions. Multiple doors allow for rapid boarding/alighting in the same manner that passengers enter and exit trams or metro carriages. The bus driver is relieved of the responsibility
