BRT fares comparable to jeepneys, disabled-friendly

PROPONENTS of the Bus Rapid Transit say the mass transport system is accessible to persons with disabilities and senior citizens, and fare rates would be comparable to the jeepneys.

These issues were discussed in the multi-sectoral consultation held in the City Hall yesterday.

Cebu BRT lead consultant, Colin Brader said that BRT is designed to be “accessible to all.”

“It is very friendly – exceeds national design guidelines,” he said.

“The design will exceed Philippine guidelines adhering to international accessibility design guidelines and the forthcoming World Bank guidelines on designing for persons with limited mobility,” said Brader and added that they have had several meetings with PWD groups.

Brader said that there will be anchor points for wheelchairs within the buses.

“Crossing to the stations will be at ground level and ramps will be minimal. The edges of crossing points will have tactile paving so unsighted and partially sighted are able to feel the edge of the sidewalk,” said Brader.

All signage will be legible and clear for partially sighted, he added.

A professor from Cebu Normal University raised the issue of BRT fare rate and its affordability to student who he said compose 80 percent of the city’s commuters.

Dr. David Green, an independent environmental consultant said that the fare of BRT is “equivalent” to existing jeepneys fare rates.

Brader, said in a separate interview that the fare “would be comparable to jeepney fares.”

“Financial analysis found out that the revenue for the system can pay for the operation and management cost. On that basis we have reasonable level of confidence to maintain it at par with jeepney fares,” Brader said.

He added that fares will be reviewed. “Fares will be reviewed in the future – in the same way as jeepney fares are reviewed.”

The BRT is 13.7 meters long with seating capacity of 46, but the bus can accommodate 100 passengers.

“Although we design for a maximum of 80 to maintain reasonable comfort levels,” he added.

Brader’s group is finishing the project’s feasibility study by August this year.

In an earlier interview, he said funding for the $185 million project is “good as approved” by the World Bank. Funds he said may be available in January next year and work on the project will shortly commence. /Tweeny M. Malinao, Correspondent