Planning of School Transportation in Tulang Bawang Regency: A Case Study of Banjar Agung and Banjar Margo Districts

Abstract

The high number of traffic accidents involving students in Tulang Bawang Regency, particularly in Banjar Agung and Banjar Margo Districts, is primarily attributed to the lack of public transportation services that meet students' travel needs. Consequently, the use of private vehicles, particularly motorcycles, among students remains high. This study aims to develop an effective and safe school transportation plan as an alternative mode of transport for students. A quantitative descriptive approach was employed using interview surveys, land use surveys, and Vehicle Operating Cost (VOC) component surveys, supported by secondary data obtained from relevant government agencies. The analyses included student travel characteristics, potential travel demand, route and bus stop determination, vehicle type selection, operational performance, Vehicle Operating Cost (VOC), Ability to Pay (ATP), and Willingness to Pay (WTP). The results identified three school transportation routes serving five schools, requiring a total of 21 small buses with a seating capacity of 19 passengers each. The proposed fares on all routes were lower than students' Ability to Pay (ATP) and Willingness to Pay (WTP), indicating that the proposed fares are affordable for students while remaining sufficient to cover vehicle operating costs. The proposed school transportation system is expected to reduce students' dependence on private vehicles and improve the safety of their journeys to school.