Here is a thought to shake up transport system

THE desire to provide public transport in Dunedin is admirable.

Some people dislike cars, some can’t afford one and some are forbidden one. However, the business case for the current system is a falsehood. Many millions are wasted with the average of three people in a 40seat bus a ridiculous extravagance.

Buses are subsidised to the extent of tens of millions of ratepayer dollars. I’ve been observing for over six months now and many buses are empty or have one or two passengers.

I have a suggestion. Every Dunedin citizen receives a coded Bee Card with their electoral number, social welfare number or school ID. Anyone not at school is either underage or a delinquent.

Taxi companies are contracted (at reduced rates) to transport anyone to and from their places of residence to the city. Administration is conducted via an app similar to Uber, but phone calls can also book.

Social travel is own care using private means, taxis or Uber at normal costs. Bus drivers are assisted into taxi licences as more will be required, creating many jobs. Current subsidies by the Dunedin City Council and the Otago Regional Council are reduced by 25%.

This system will cut the current cost, provide doortodoor service, be much more efficient and provide more jobs. The buses are using dirty fuel, are completely inefficient, often unreliable and damage roads.

John Evans

Otakou