Following the electric bus roll out in Footscray in mid-May, campaigners are continuing to urge the government to deliver network reform.
Friends of the Earth Melbourne (FOTEM) sustainable cities co-ordinator Elyse Cunningham said while the roll out is a positive change there are bigger underlying issues that need to be addressed.
“It is a good thing and we are glad to see the new buses rolled out, but if the state wants to lower their emissions in public transport, more needs to be done,” she said.
“… Reforming the bus routes from the long indirect unreliable lines to a simple grid that will allow for 10 minute services is crucial so people have access to a network that is reliable and they choose to use.”
FOTEM wants the electrification of the state’s entire bus fleet by 2030.
Ms Cunningham said the amount of people that use buses in the outer west is extremely low because they can’t rely on them.
“Research shows locals emissions from buses are lower compared to those coming from people using their cars,” she said.
“We are pleased about the zero bus transition but the service that needs improvement is the bus network.”
Ms Cunningham said the amount of people that use buses in the outer west is extremely low because they can’t rely on them.
“If their local bus comes every 40 minutes and does not connect to the train they will obviously choose to drive.”
“The electric buses are great, but we need to worry about getting people out of their cars,” she said.
As the west is the fastest growing area in the country, Ms Cunningham said it is crucial that the network is changed.
“Rather than adding a new bus chain every few years , changing the whole network to a grid will be long lasting and sustainable,” she said.
Jennifer Pittorino
