Public Transportation - Week 1 Entry 2


Transportation is one of the greatest contributing factors to providing a sustainable urban environment. It is indisputable that a public transportation option would greatly help with sustainability.
After residing in Australia in the past two years, majority of the time spent in Launceston Tasmania, and the past month in Sydney, the question of how reliable is public transportation in Australia has sprung up.
According to statistics, Tasmania has the lowest carbon emissions amongst the 8 states in Australia. However, transportation contributed to a huge percentage of the carbon emission within the state. The public transportation in Tasmania allows residents to access certain parts of the city. With long intervals between buses, minimal coverage, and early termination of services, it is not an ideal option. As a Singaporean, I have heavily relied on public transportation. With well distributed bus stops, frequent bus timings, wide coverage of train services, and late services, it is the main form of transportation for majority of Singaporeans and me. However, on my 2nd week in Tasmania, I resorted to purchasing a vehicle as my main form of transport.
The past month of Sydney has brought about a similar experience. The public transportation here though providing a wider range of coverage and services till a later time, the intervals between buses, and coverage within certain suburbs made public transportation an inconvenient option.
Comparing public transportation between Australia and Singapore might not be ideal, as Singapore is an extremely small City-State. However, for public transport to be the main means of transport for Australians, it has to vastly improve.
Improving public transport is easier said than done, but what makes public transport a more convenient option?
Comfortability is an often overlooked factor. Buses and trains, specifically for longer travel times, ideally has to provide passengers with a comfortable environment. Seating, standing positions, temperatures, and hygiene are some affecting factors.
Convenience is probably the most important factor. A wider coverage of the areas, minimizing walking distances for passengers, minimizing waiting time are some contributing factors.
Pricing is another major issue. Though significantly a more affordable means of transport. The pricing can be a major factor in encouraging people to utilise public transports.
In conclusion, public transportation can and should be the first option for people, improvement in the public transportation systems might require a great deal of investment, however, it contributes a great deal in achieving sustainability.

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