Author(s) :

Alhassan, H. M..

Volume/Issue :

Abstract :

This paper assesses the operational performance of the minibus transport service in Kano metropolis with a view to seeing if the current regulatory policy is beneficial to the travelling public. Twelve routes deemed to be representative of the metropolitan area were selected for observation and data collection. Analysis of the performance index indicated that the minibus operation is profitable along any route. Furthermore the average vehicle kilometer of the fleet along any route was 41 km, far below the accepted norm of 210-260 km coverage for public transport operation and suggests that respondents on questionnaires on the minibus age and kilometer of coverage were insincere in their claims. The quality of service of the minibus system averaged 3.7 minutes for waiting time, 70.0 for service frequency and 1.87 for load factor. Moreover, passenger opinion on the minibus mode showed that 66% wanted improvement in public relation as against 4% that wanted fleet expansion. Forty-two percent viewed the minibuses as old whilst 4% accepted the system as it is. Minibus operation in Kano is deregulated but government monitors the fare structure. The wide over capacity experienced in the system does not result in additional benefits to passengers. Efforts should be directed at curtailing the traffic regulation abuses resulting from system over-capacity.

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