Traffic Troubles Affecting Edinburgh’s Buses
The Number 38 bus route in Edinburgh is facing increasing delays. This route is vital as it connects a college, retail park, and two hospitals. Yet, travel times are stretching longer, frustrating commuters.
According to the bus industry, rising road congestion is a significant issue. The average speed for buses in Scotland has dropped to 11.3 mph, down from 14.9 mph two years ago. This slowdown is particularly evident on the Number 38, which crosses several major roads in a city known for its reliable bus service.
Nico Reverie, a regular on the service, expressed his frustration: “You can see the hold-ups, but there’s not much you can do,” he said. “Delays make it tough to catch connecting buses, so I need to leave earlier for work.”
A recent study by CPT Scotland highlights the impact of traffic on bus services. Commuters are noticing longer wait times, particularly during peak hours, and the industry is feeling the stress. Francis Boyle, another passenger, mentioned, “The service is good, but it should run longer, especially since it covers two big hospitals.”
Research reveals that over the past 20 years, running times on the Number 38 have significantly increased due to more traffic, lowered speed limits, and new bike lanes. As a result, the frequency of the bus has been cut, forcing fewer vehicles to handle the same demand.
Industry experts suggest that local authorities could help by prioritizing bus lanes and traffic lights. Paul White, director of CPT Scotland, pointed out, “When buses are stuck in traffic, it makes them less attractive to passengers.” An improvement in bus speeds could lead to millions more journeys per year and lower operating costs.
There is hope on the horizon. In Aberdeen, controversial bus gates have improved journey times by up to 18.8%. If similar measures could be applied in Edinburgh, it could lead to a significant increase in ridership.
Furthermore, a pilot program in Glasgow is testing AI technology to analyze traffic patterns. This technology could help prioritize buses, reducing delays further.
Willie Hamilton, operations director at Lothian Buses, emphasizes the need for awareness of how congestion affects passengers. “A bus isn’t just a vehicle; it can carry many people,” he said. As Edinburgh grows and traffic increases, tackling these challenges is essential for maintaining a reliable public transport system.
In summary, addressing bus congestion in Edinburgh requires cooperation between local authorities and service operators. The goal is to make public transport a more attractive option for everyone.
