Using Ordered Probit Modeling to Assess Perceived Bus Performance in Phnom Penh

Abstract

After the first and fail attempt in 2001, the public bus service is now provided for citizens of Phnom Penh. However, the sustainability of the public bus service remains questionable due to unstable demand. This paper assesses the public bus performance from the viewpoints of bus passengers. Factors affecting passengers’ perceived bus performance are investigated under an ordered probit model, using data from an on-board survey with bus passengers during service testing period in Phnom Penh (N = 1,100). Results show that the perceived public bus performance is likely to be improved by enhancing the bus attributes (e.g., speed, comfort) and by addressing the concerns expressed by the bus passengers (e.g., requests for bus service expansion). The findings provide the government useful information in considering appropriate strategies to ensure the sustainability of the public bus and to lessen the current traffic issues in the city.