Lessons from Japanese Rail: How to Improve Public Transportation Reliability Globally

The Japanese railway system is renowned for its exceptional efficiency and reliability. This dedication was on full display in 2017 and 2018 when two Japanese rail companies issued public apologies for trains departing just 20 and 25 seconds early. These instances highlight a culture where every second counts, and customer trust is paramount.

For public transport providers worldwide, this example isn’t just impressive—it’s inspiring. With 157 billion bus trips taken globally each year, even a small percentage of service improvements can make a massive impact. While challenges such as delays, access inequities, and service reliability persist, they also present opportunities to innovate and better serve riders.

Turning Challenges into Opportunities

Global research reveals some common barriers to public transport use, but each represents an area where progress is possible:

1. Expanding Access
   • Globally, only 50% of urban residents have convenient public transport access within walking distance. In rural areas, particularly in Africa, over 70% of the population lacks basic transport infrastructure (United Nations).
   • Opportunity: Expanding infrastructure and integrating last-mile solutions can connect more communities to reliable transit options.
2. Addressing Commute Inequities
   • Disparities in transit access mean some people enjoy far better opportunities than others. For example, residents of wealthier neighborhoods in Mexico City have 28 times better job access via transit than those in poorer areas (World Resources Institute).
   • Opportunity: Optimizing routes and improving affordability can create more equitable transit systems.
3. Enhancing Service Reliability
   • Overcrowding and delays deter 60% of potential riders globally, yet these challenges can be addressed with technology and data-driven solutions (World Economic Forum).
   • Opportunity: Leveraging real-time data to improve schedules and adjust capacity can make public transport more dependable.
4. Improving Safety
   • Safety concerns, particularly for women and vulnerable groups, are a significant barrier to transit use. About 25% of surveyed riders cited harassment as a deterrent (United Nations).
   • Opportunity: Investing in safety measures and fostering inclusive environments can make public transport welcoming for all.
5. Bridging First and Last Mile Gaps
   • Many potential riders struggle with the "first and last mile" problem. In China, 54% of bike-share users cite connectivity to transit as a critical gap (World Resources Institute).
   • Opportunity: Integrating bike-share programs, micro-mobility solutions, and on-demand services can help close these gaps.

A Path Forward

Japanese rail companies demonstrate the importance of placing the customer at the heart of operations. By prioritizing transparency and continuously optimizing services, they’ve set a high bar. Public transport providers globally can build on this example, focusing on:

• Data-Driven Decisions: Access to accurate data helps identify service inefficiencies and track progress.
• Flexible Solutions: On-demand services and dynamic scheduling can better align with rider needs.
• Transparency and Trust: Clear communication fosters rider confidence and engagement.

Companies like Liftango are already leading the way, combining innovative technologies with insights to create smarter transit systems. Solutions, including Fixed Route, On-Demand and Optimisation Labs solutions, offer tools for public transport providers to adapt to changing demands.

Collaboration for a Brighter Future

Public transport is a cornerstone of sustainable mobility, and improving it requires collective effort. By embracing innovation and learning from successful examples like Japanese rail, we can build systems that are more reliable, inclusive, and efficient. The opportunities are vast—and the journey begins with a commitment to progress.