Adopting Demand Responsive Transportation Service in Seoul
Submitted by siadmin on Wed, 03/27/2024 - 14:30Seoul's public transportation system has undergone continuous investments since the 2004 renewal, resulting in an initial increase in bus ridership until 2010. However, in recent years, there has been a continuous decrease in bus usage. The COVID-19 pandemic further exacerbated the decline, leading to a substantial increase in subsidies, nearly triple the amount, for city buses. These changes can be attributed to evolving citizen behaviour and a diversification of demands regarding transportation modes. One prominent issue is the congestion and discomfort experienced by citizens during peak commuting hours, leading to concerns about safety. Inadequate late-night transportation options also pose inconveniences. To address these persistent challenges, experts are suggesting Demand Responsive Transportation (DRT) as a potential solution. In this study, three DRT proposals for Seoul are put forth: route substitution of local buses with DRT, customized DRT for congested commuting routes, and integrated DRT for late-night mobility. These proposals aim to improve the efficiency of bus services, alleviate congestion, and enhance accessibility during peak hours and late-night travel. These innovative approaches could help to effectively address the inconvenience faced by its residents and create a more responsive and user-friendly public transportation system.