Urban transport

Urban transport refers to the systems and services used for moving people and goods within urban areas, typically cities and their surrounding suburbs. This encompasses a wide range of transportation modes and infrastructures designed to facilitate mobility in densely populated areas. Key components of urban transport include: 1. **Public Transport**: Buses, trains, trams, subways, and light rail systems that provide mass transit options for urban dwellers. Public transport aims to reduce traffic congestion and provide an affordable means of transportation.

Interurban railways refer to a type of rail transport system that connects cities and towns, typically covering longer distances than urban transit systems like subways or light rail but shorter than long-distance trains. These railways often serve as a means of commuter transportation, allowing people to travel between suburban areas and urban centers efficiently.

Light rail is a type of urban public transportation that uses trains on fixed tracks, typically designed for lower-capacity, shorter-distance travel compared to heavy rail systems like subways or commuter trains. Light rail systems are characterized by: 1. **Distinctive Infrastructure**: Light rail often operates on a dedicated right-of-way, which can include exclusive tracks, street-level tracks alongside roadways, or a combination of both. This reduces conflicts with road traffic and enhances reliability.

Rapid transit refers to high-capacity public transportation systems that operate on dedicated tracks or rights-of-way, typically designed to move a large number of passengers quickly and efficiently within urban and suburban areas. These systems are characterized by: 1. **Speed**: Rapid transit systems are designed for fast service, with minimal stops and efficient schedules. 2. **Frequency**: They often run at high frequencies, making them convenient for users and reducing waiting times.

"Taxis" can refer to several different things depending on the context, but the most common meanings are: 1. **Transportation Service**: "Taxi" generally refers to a vehicle for hire, typically a car, that transports passengers to their desired destinations in exchange for a fee. Taxis can operate on a meter system or use flat rates for certain distances or areas.

Tram transport, also known as streetcar or trolley service, refers to a mode of public transportation that uses vehicles running on tracks laid in city streets or dedicated tram corridors. Trams are typically electric and can carry passengers over both short and medium distances. Key features of tram transport include: 1. **Tracks and Routes**: Trams operate on fixed tracks that are usually embedded in the street, allowing them to share space with other vehicles.

Transit-oriented developments (TOD) are urban planning and design strategies that focus on creating compact, walkable communities centered around high-quality public transportation systems. The primary goal of TOD is to maximize access to public transit, reduce reliance on cars, and promote sustainable development patterns.

Urban rail transit refers to various forms of rail systems that are designed to operate within urban areas, facilitating the movement of people across cities and densely populated regions. It is an essential component of public transportation, helping to reduce congestion, lower emissions, and provide an efficient means of commuting. Here are some common forms of urban rail transit: 1. **Subways (or Metros)**: These are underground or elevated train systems that serve densely populated urban areas.