IN PRAISE OF PUBLIC TRANSPORT

Recently I saw discussion in social media about public transport. Some were saying they wouldn’t use because they don’t like to be surrounded by strangers. Someone cited a quote by Thomas Heatherwick (founder of Heatherwick Studio) that “In cities that are not working well, it’s the wealthy people who don’t use public transport”.

My time on the Isle of Wight, using their amazingly well-run buses, makes me a big advocate for public transport if it is efficient. Perhaps there might even be a public disclaimer saying that this form of conveyance is for everyone, not just the poor, the rich or the trendy.

It is absolutely fantastic to be on the second floor of a double decker electric bus, watching on the way the amazing views of island. There are quite a few buses on major routes, so they are never too busy and most of the time my favorite front view seat is empty.

I must admit I enjoy watching the sun rising on my early morning trips. Would I prefer instead to be stuck in traffic in a small smelly with fumes little car thinking about petrol costs and parking spaces? Maybe not. (smiling)

Shall we also take into consideration on that one bus takes off the road about 70 cars? That’s 70 tons of metal, glass, plastic and fossil fuel removed from the environment.

Something to think about, isn’t it?