ANALYSES AND DESIGN OF SCHEDULE FOR PARA-TRA SIT OPERATIONS IN AKURE METROPOLIS, ONDO STATE, NIGERIA.

Abstract

This research was aimed at appraising the operational characteristics of Para transit modes in Akure metropolis with a view to designing a wellcoordinated system. Data on the cogent indices of metering operations attributesof operators and patrons,were collected and analysed and analysed. Some of the striking findings are that operators of motorcycles (Okada) are mainly young and inexperienced, hence, the reason why safety/accident records show that they are most prone to accident. It was also discovered that operators of Para-transit modes in the study area are mainly semi-literate; some of them had been either an apprentice in one skill or the other like bricklaying, welding, auto mechanic and auto businesses. Despite reasonable gain that accrues to the operators, only few of them would like to transfer the business to their children, they rather wish they pursued their education. Hence the sustainability of operations is suspect. The results of this study have been used to design a schedule for Para-transit operation in the metropolis. The design was based on ten - year -projected volume of person trips and Travel Demand analysis applying the Detroit Growth factor method of trip distribution. The schedule has eliminated motorcycle (okada) and tricycle (keke NAPEP)on the main trunk or express way in the metropolis, rather they are to serve as feeders through conveyance of commuters from suburbs to the nearest terminals, where they can access other modes for their trips.This work provides a data base on operational characteristics of Para - transit modes in the study area, which could be extrapolated to cover similar cities in the developing world. The operational schedule designed can also be used as a model for other cities.