A Study on the Issues to Promote Transportations of Passengers and Cargos Using Buses

Abstract

Transportations of passengers and cargos using buses have the potential to improve the profitability of transportation operators and reduce labor costs for parcel delivery companies. However, the number of such initiatives remains limited, particularly in depopulated areas, and the underlying reasons are not well understood. This study conducted interviews with three bus operators to examine how they perceive challenges in implementing these projects. The analysis focused on the process of project formation, operational schemes, relevant regulations, and the role of local governments. The findings revealed are: (a) the benefits of implementation tend to favor local governments more than bus operators, indicating a need to improve institutional conditions that allow municipalities to engage in delivery operations; (b) discussions are needed regarding how bus operators' project revenues are handled; (c) sharing information and know-how from nationwide case studies is essential for effective project development; and (d) institutional frameworks do not always align with the practical needs of actual operations.