Guess what. There are many bad things that happen to us. We can always see the world in black colour only. In the short term, as well as in the long run.
I refuse to feel past times were generally better. I know we live in good times.
I admit we have troubles with carbon dioxide, global warming, disappearing forests, … You may disagree and be happy with what happens these days. But I don’t want to speak on those today.
Today’s topic – public transport
Imagine you wanted to get a hundred kilometres far away. Horses, fiacre, your feet only. Long journey anyway. And you can overcome this distance in an hour today. Even without a need to posses a car. Just jump on train or bus and you’re there. Good for us.
Most public transport systems run along fixed routes with set embarkation points to a prearranged timetable. Anyway that timetables are known in advance and you can use it according to your plan. Or change your plan slightly.
Seven criteria measure the usability of different types of public transport and its overall appeal. The criteria are speed, comfort, safety, cost, proximity, timeliness and directness. You can select among different public transport types, or using your own one (car, feet, etc.). Although there is continuing debate as to the true efficiency of different modes of transportation, mass transit is generally regarded as significantly more energy efficient than other forms of travel – public transport could facilitate increased urban population densities, and thus reduce travel distances and fossil fuel consumption.
An important social role played by public transport is to ensure that all members of society are able to travel, not just those with a driving license and access to an automobile. Above that, public transportation opens to its users the possibility of meeting other people. As a photographer, meeting with others is a big incentive. Big possibility to new pictures (and enjoyment).
Last but not least – take into account efficiency factor. Efficiency in costs, spent time, necessity to park somewhere, consumed energy. The more crowded space, the more efficient public transport.
We live in good world, we can live even better. And public transport is one of means…