BUS SHELTER
A good bus shelter is an essential part of any successful urban mass-transit system. What constitutes “good,” however, depends upon your point of view. From the perspective of the Mumbai city agency that is responsible for its management, a good shelter is one that has low maintenance requirements and is vandal-resistant. From the rider’s point of view, an ideal shelter is one that allows visibility and easy access to the bus, is comfortable and convenient, provides clear information, and is safe.
Both viewpoints are equally important to consider, because an unused shelter is a waste of money and an unnecessary maintenance problem. A well-designed, comfortable shelter can make waiting for a bus a pleasant — and even interesting — experience! Unfortunately, many poorly designed shelters also exist.
To decide what type of shelter to use in a particular area requires an analysis of existing and anticipated conditions, as well as some knowledge of the characteristics of good shelter location and design. Information about each factor is included below.
- Is a bus shelter needed?
- Where should it be located?
- How should it be designed?
- How should it be maintained and managed?
- Are there funding options?