Challenges in Urban Transport

This lecture discusses the challenges faced in urban transport, focusing on the decline of public services and the rise of informal private operators. It explores the reasons behind the failure of public transport systems, the impact of economic factors on infrastructure maintenance, and the transition towards formalizing informal transport. The role of the state in supporting and regulating the transport sector is analyzed, along with the balance between profitability and public service. The importance of providing accessible transport services to all populations, including those in remote areas, is emphasized. The lecture also debates the viability of artisanal transport systems in large cities compared to mass transit options like metros and trains, highlighting the need for a strategic approach to urban transportation planning.