More people would use the bus if it was a more reliable service, consumers say

People would be more willing to make use of the bus service in Malta, if there were to become more reliable, punctual and increased in frequency, a survey has found. 

The Association for Consumer Rights, a local pressure group, conducted a survey between July and October last year that garnered 1,100 respondents from members of the public. 

Almost half of those who replied said they hardly ever used public transport, while close to 70 per cent said they are not more willing to use the bus service now that it has been made free of charge. 

Over 90 per cent said they would like to see more express minibuses with quick trips to a specific destination, however, half also said that they would only use this service if these are punctual and reliable. 

ACR Malta executive committee member Catherine Camilleri said that responses indicated that there is a lack of public trust in the local bus service.

“If we want to reduce fossil fuel dependence, Malta’s traffic congestion and air pollution, it is critical to tackling the real deterrents that are holding the public back from using buses.  The survey respondents identified what would entice them to use buses more often: punctual buses, no...