Shanghai Introduces Passenger-Driven Bus Routes with New Public Transport System

The authorities in Shanghai, China, are introducing a novel public transport system using buses, where passengers themselves determine the routes. New services will only commence once a sufficient number of riders express interest. Named the DZ system, it enables residents to propose their desired routes through a municipal online platform.

When a new route is proposed in the app, other users can select it and cast their votes. If the demand reaches between 15 to 20 passengers, the service is initiated.

Currently, over 220 DZ routes have been launched across all 16 districts of Shanghai. The online platform became operational on May 8. Users can enter their starting and ending points, preferred time, and frequency of travel. Once approved by the authorities, buses will commence operations on the new route three days later.

One of the initial test routes, DZ301, connects a major metro station with surrounding residential areas, schools, and office complexes. According to Wu Yongmin, a representative from Jiushi Bus Company, the average daily ridership is around 250 to 260 passengers.

The DZ301 route was established following a request made by a local resident in December of the previous year. Transportation officials conducted an on-site study, observing pedestrian traffic and interacting with commuters during peak hours. Subsequently, drivers performed test runs to fine-tune the schedule before the official route launch.

The fare structure for the new service is based on market prices; however, there are currently no discounts available for students, seniors, or other vulnerable groups.

The newly introduced platform aims to streamline what was once a sluggish bureaucratic process for launching new routes, stated Wang Yixiang, Deputy Director of Shanghai’s Passenger Transport Department. Nevertheless, he acknowledged initial challenges such as uneven passenger demand and a lack of awareness regarding the option. Additionally, Wang noted that route planning on the platform heavily relies on manual work on-site.