Do Users Prefer Particular Public Bus Transport Operators in Bhopal, India?

Abstract

This paper focuses on the unique situation of users' preferences when choosing between different Public Bus Transport Operators (PBTOs) in Bhopal. While many studies have examined the choice between different modes of transport (such as choosing a car over a bus), the factors that lead users to prefer one PBTO over another---despite similar characteristics---have not been studied. This paper analyzes these differences in preference through travel behavior attributes. It also explores how the three PBTOs in Bhopal serve the daily mobility needs of different segments of the population and reveals the factors influencing users' choice of one PBTO over another.