China's Public Transportation: Problems, Policies, and Prospective of Sustainability

Abstract

The rapid increases in urbanization and motorized travel have created daunting challenges for Chinese cities. A well-planned public transportation system is essential in managing this growth. This article discusses the role of sustainability in the Chinese public transportation sector. The paper describes how public transportation can address the challenges posed by the urban environment and traffic congestion. Equity issues in planning and investment in roads and public transportation are described. In order to provide the public transportation system that China needs, the author concludes that more money should be put into expanding and improving low-cost public transit systems. Emphasis should be placed in improving integrated service planning, land use planning and the use of advanced transit technologies. Although high-capacity rail transit lines are important, the nature and expense of these systems make it necessary to consider other forms of transit as well.