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Public transportation

Definition

Public transportation refers to shared modes of transportation available for use by the general public. It includes services like buses, trains, trams/streetcars, subways/metros/undergrounds, ferries/boats/ships that operate on scheduled routes with fixed stops or stations.

Analogy

Think of public transportation as a giant carpool party! Instead of everyone driving their own cars separately and adding more traffic congestion on the roads (and more carbon emissions), people gather at designated spots and hop onto larger vehicles together. It's like a fun and efficient way to travel, reducing the number of cars on the road and benefiting both the environment and commuters.

Related terms

Mass Transit: Mass transit refers to public transportation systems designed to move large numbers of people efficiently. It typically includes buses, trains, subways, or light rail systems that operate within urban areas.

Sustainable Transportation: Sustainable transportation focuses on modes of travel that have minimal negative impacts on the environment. It promotes energy-efficient vehicles, alternative fuels, walking, cycling, and public transportation as alternatives to private car use.

Commuter Rail: Commuter rail is a type of passenger train service that primarily serves suburban areas by transporting people between their homes and workplaces in urban centers. It offers scheduled trips during peak commuting hours.