Metro, Light Rail and BRT

Abstract

This chapter reviews the global conditions, trends andchallenges for the main high-capacity trans portoptions: metro, light rail and BRT. Such public trans -port modes offer solutions for improving urbanmobility, quality of life and the environ ment in bothdeveloped and devel op ing countries, providing acompetitive alternative to private motor vehicles. Anefficient system facilitates seamless movement withinand between cities, which in turn is essential forurban functionality and prosperity.1 Metros, light railand BRTs are suitable for key corridors in cities andas part of larger, integrated public trans port systems.High-capacity public trans port systems arestrategic in shaping urban form, promoting higherdensities as well as mixed and accessible land use.Such modes reduce the need for trips by privatemotorized travel, and may thus reduce the totalkilometres travelled in cars and motorcycles, miti -gating negative externalities such as air pollution, roadtraffic accidents, lack of physical activity, noise andgreenhouse gas emissions. They are also importantin providing inclusive access for vulnerable and lowincomegroups, and in creating jobs.In the urban planning dialogue, opinions regard -ing metro, light rail and BRT are diversified, witharguments in favour of and against each mode.2 Inthis chapter, these three modes are explored, demon -strating the importance of undertaking compre -hensive evaluations that consider all significantbenefits and costs of high-capacity public trans portsystems, prior to implementation. The chapter alsopresents an overview of current global conditions andtrends, including some challenges: service quality,integration, finance and institutions. The chapterconcludes with key policy recommendations.