Operational Performance Analysis of the Public Transport System over Time

Abstract

The public transport system is responsible for the displacement of a large part of the population, particularly in developing countries. This fact makes it relevant to evaluate the performance of public transport to provide an efficient and effective service. The purpose of this study is to conduct a performance evaluation of the public transport operation in the Metropolitan Region of Fortaleza (MRF), in the State of Ceará, Brazil. The analysis is based on DEA and the Malmquist index, based on three inputs (total operating time, fleet age, and the mileage traveled) and two outputs (fare revenue and number of passengers). Data were obtained through automated fare collection systems (AFCs) that were implemented in the MRF. Although there were no major fluctuations in performance during the analyzed period, the results indicate that the system’s performance declined in certain years. In addition, the analysis enables a better understanding of route performance, considering the operating company or the area of operation, which helps to diagnose and comprehend the operation more effectively. By analyzing the operational performance over time, the proposed approach provides an additional contribution by offering a comprehensive overview to the involved stakeholders, fostering decision-making processes based on evidence.