Lima's Metropolitano Bus Service Optimized with Route Changes and Seated Queue Elimination

The Autoridad de Transporte Urbano (ATU) in Lima, Peru has announced several changes to the Metropolitano bus service aimed at optimizing the system and reducing passenger wait times. The key modifications include merging the 'Super Express' and 'Express 3' routes, expanding the 'Express 5' service to Saturdays, and eliminating the seated queue system at high-demand stations.

By combining the 'Super Express' and 'Express 3' routes, bus frequency will increase from every 3.5 minutes to every 2 minutes during peak hours. This change will also add 12 additional trips to the northern expansion of the Metropolitano system. The 'Express 5' service, which currently operates only on weekdays, will now run on Saturdays as well to provide more transportation options for weekend riders.

One of the most significant changes is the elimination of the seated queue system at stations that experience high passenger volume. ATU spokesperson Víctor Benítez acknowledged that while waiting times are an inherent challenge in mass transit, the poor organization at major stations was causing excessive delays for passengers. By removing the seated queue, the ATU aims to reduce boarding delays and improve overall bus frequency.

Why this matters: The optimization of Lima's Metropolitano bus service directly impacts the daily commutes of thousands of residents who rely on public transportation. By addressing inefficiencies and implementing targeted changes, the ATU is working to provide a more reliable and efficient mass transit system for the city's growing population.

The ATU has been actively working to improve the Metropolitano service, including efforts to prevent private vehicles from invading the exclusive bus lanes. In collaboration with the National Police of Peru (PNP), the ATU has sanctioned 1,006 drivers for this infraction so far in 2024. The PNP has imposed 46 fines, focusing on major avenues like Túpac Amaru, Universitaria, and Alfonso Ugarte. "The ATU and PNP are committed to intensifying these efforts to safeguard the integrity of Metropolitano users and operators," stated an ATU representative, urging drivers to respect the dedicated public transportation lanes.

The route changes and seated queue elimination are part of the ATU's ongoing initiatives to optimize the Metropolitano bus service and enhance the overall user experience. As Lima continues to grow and evolve, efficient and well-organized public transportation remains a critical component of the city's infrastructure.

Key Takeaways

• ATU in Lima, Peru announces changes to Metropolitano bus service.
• Merging 'Super Express' and 'Express 3' routes, increasing frequency.
• Expanding 'Express 5' service to Saturdays for more weekend options.
• Eliminating seated queue system at high-demand stations to reduce delays.
• ATU and PNP collaborate to prevent private vehicles from invading bus lanes.