Increases in public transport use

[ozbob]

Petrol rises boost public transport use

September 05, 2006 03:42pm
Article from: AAP

RISING petrol prices are prompting Melburnians to abandon their cars in favour of public transport, according to research.

Statistics released today by public transport operator Metlink show patronage on trains, trams and buses grew 6.2 per cent in the year to June 30.

Metlink chief executive Bernie Carolan said historically this represented "very rapid growth" across the network.

Train passenger numbers had increased at the fastest rate, partly because longer distance commuters were most affected by rising petrol prices, he said.

Rising fuel costs were cited as the main reason people were making the switch to public transport, according to a separate Metlink survey.

The survey of 400 people for the quarter ending June 30 found 23 per cent of respondents blamed car and petrol costs for the switch.

"Petrol prices jumped significantly in April 2005 and have remained high for most of 2005-2006, jumping again this quarter," Mr Carolan said.

"The high price at the bowser is translating into changed travel behaviour for many Melburnians."

Other reasons commuters were switching to public transport included a change in work circumstances and the fact public transport was regarded as more convenient and an easier option.

Fifty-two per cent of people surveyed who had increased their use of public transport were existing commuters.

Thirty-three per cent were lapsed users returning to the system, while 15 per cent were new users.

http://www.news.com.au/story/0,23599,20357641-1702,00.html