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Round Table China

Support for struggling bus services

Nov 14, 2024
China's public bus services face a rough road ahead, battling rising costs and dwindling riders. New regulations may provide much-needed support from local governments, but will it be enough? The importance of buses for low-income residents clashes with a younger generation favoring ride-hailing and biking. Economic woes are compounded by issues like senior fare exemptions. Discover how these challenges impact mobility and what solutions could secure the future of public transport in urban China.
24:58

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Quick takeaways

  • The new Urban Public Transportation Regulation mandates local governments to fund bus services, aiming to improve urban mobility amidst financial struggles.
  • A shift toward a market-based approach in bus operations may enhance service quality while addressing affordability for low-income passengers.

Deep dives

The Urgency for Regulatory Intervention

Many public bus companies in China are struggling financially, leading to decreased service and rising concerns about urban mobility. This situation prompted the government to announce a new Urban Public Transportation Regulation, which mandates local authorities to manage and fund bus services. The regulation aims to promote high-quality development by ensuring safety and improving service levels for the public. Cases of suspended bus services, such as one in Shangqiu City, highlight the critical need for such interventions to avoid further disruptions in public transport.

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