Plans are in place to reduce overcrowding on buses travelling to and from Seoul
Public transport in South Korea could be set to take on a new look with the introduction of British-style double-deck buses.
The move follows a decision by GyeongGi Provincial Government to trial double-deck vehicles similar to those used in London and Hong Kong, as part of a bid to alleviate overcrowding for commuters travelling between Seoul and its surrounding suburban areas.
The first stage of the trial started December 8, and will run through until December 26. During this time a high-capacity, low-emission Enviro500 double-deck bus – built by ADL – will operate on inter-urban routes between Suwon and Sadang; Namyang and Jamsil; and Gimpo and Seoul Station.
Paul Davies, Director and General Manager of ADL’s operations in Asia Pacific, said: “We are delighted to be working with GyeongGi Provincial Government, GyeongGi Research Institute and the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport to determine the suitability of double-decks for these important commuter routes.
“We know from the vast number of ADL double-decks operating successfully in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, across North America, and of course in the United Kingdom, that they provide a unique transport solution.
“In general, they have the same ‘footprint’ as a conventional single-deck bus but are capable of carrying twice as many seated passengers, comfortably and safely. They are also highly manoeuvrable, fuel efficient and hugely popular with passengers.
“It is a proven fact that the introduction of double-deck buses increases passenger numbers, boosts revenue earnings and contributes to reduced traffic congestion.”
