Integrated Operation of Trunk Routes and Branches of Rural Transit

This paper develops the integrated operation of rural transit routes in China based on the challenges rural transit systems face from the limitations of separate operation. Firstly the characteristics of routes spatial layout and passenger flow are analyzed as the basis for operation design. Secondly, integrated operation and implement conditions are discussed. The trunk routes operate similar to urban transit route, and the minibus and flexible service are suitable for branch routes. Because of low passenger flow, the branch routes should be interlined with the adjacent trunk route. In addition, multi trunk routes and branch routes of adjacent towns could be allied to obtain better optimization and maximize the utilization of vehicle capacity. Furthermore, the practical application of Pukou district is illustrated to show the advantages of integrated operation. The findings of this paper are therefore potentially helpful to rural transit operators and researchers in China and other developing countries.