Victorian bus users are now able to see how their services are performing with the Department of Transport publishing detailed bus performance data for the first time.
Minister for Roads and Road Safety, Ben Carroll said the performance data, now available online, revealed the monthly punctuality of the overall bus network as well as punctuality for individual bus routes, dating back to 2017.
“The latest data shows the bus network achieved 93.6 per cent punctuality in June overall, with 98.8 per cent of services monitored, well above the public target of 86 per cent for punctuality,” Mr Carroll said.
“Pre-coronavirus in June 2019, the bus network achieved 87.1 per cent punctuality and it has averaged 88.6 per cent punctuality since 1 July 2017,” he said.
“The data will be published each month in line with the monitoring and reporting system already in place for the State’s tram and train networks.”
Mr Carroll said the publication of bus performance data was part of the Department’s Victoria’s Bus Plan, which aimed to ensure the network met demand; had greener and smarter fleets; improved accessibility; and delivered value for money.
The Minister said the bus network was an essential part of the State’s transport system and, with 80 per cent of people in urban areas living within walking distance of a stop, he wanted to see more people using buses.
“In another initiative, a trial of the real-time passenger capacity indicator RideSpace is underway across the bus network to assess its accuracy across high-frequency routes,” he said.
“As more people return to public transport Ridespace, which is available on Melbourne trains and is being trialled on trams, lets people know how busy or quiet a service is to help them feel comfortable using public transport.”
Mr Carroll said Ridespace data was collected from about 350 routes, which enabled real-time information for passengers and the tracking of buses via the Public Transport Victoria (PTV) app.
The Department’s performance data for the train, tram and bus networks can be accessed at this PS News link.
