Considerations on the Integrated Public Transportation System Plan for Bogotá

Abstract

The proposal of the Integrated Public Transportation System (SITP, for its initials in Spanish) for Bogota supposes an improvement in the quality of customer service, a reduction of vehicular traffic conflict, an improvement of environmental conditions, and proper work conditions for its employees, among other benefits. However, there are some aspects that could undermine the potential benefits of the system. The possible increase in ticket costs (including transfer costs) has affected the domestic economy of some families. This fact may have an effect on a larger number of people who request the Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system and may promote the operation of illegal public transportation with lower cost fares. On the other hand, the implementation of future rail systems and clean technologies will further increase the projected fare if there are no subsidies. Finally, changes in the fleet composition and use of mandatory stops will increase crowding inside the buses during rush hour and longer walk distances to and from bus stops