Environmental Engineering Reference
In-Depth Information
Part I
The nature of transport
Transport is such a pervasive feature of contemporary life that it may seem unnecessary
to spend much time studying the nature of it. Many people seem to think they
understand it well enough already. Given half a chance in casual conversation they
will not only give you their opinion on the causes of present transport problems but
identify the solutions as well!
However a few minutes thought or discussion - particularly with people outside
your own immediate circle - should demonstrate that what each of us thinks of as
'transport' is likely to depend on which modes of transport we use ourselves and the
context in which we use them (e.g. in town or country, or for business, commuting,
shopping or leisure). There are plainly different requirements for example between
people and freight and between motorised and non-motorised modes.
There is also a distinction to be made between the vehicles and the infrastructure
which together comprise a transport system. All transport involves the movement of
some person or object (usually in a specially designed vehicle) and a purpose-built
track or other adapted space over which it can be moved. The two are obviously
functionally inter-dependent, but not always in balance. Can there in fact be such a
thing as an 'unsafe' road which needs to be improved, or are what we call 'accidents'
the result of inappropriate driver behaviour?
Another way of viewing transport is in terms of the interactions between users of a
particular mode. The speed I am able to drive along a road, or the comfort I have when
travelling on a train, will depend on the number of other people who decide to travel
the same way at the same time. So it is not just the nature of the transport system itself
which determines the conditions I experience; the way other people use it affects me
too (and me them).
This applies even more to the interaction
between
modes, particularly where (as
with roads) they make use of the same space. The needs of buses, vans and lorries
could be met much better if there weren't also cars to cater for (both moving and
parked). Pedestrians and cyclists would have a much easier time if all motorists could
be banned. (Motorists might well return the compliment!)
Then we need to consider the way transport systems and their users taken together
interact with everything else. Traffic flows down a street may be welcomed by frontage
shopkeepers who benefit from passing trade, but cursed by other residents because of
the threat they pose to safety and the local environment. Increasing traffic levels on
scenic rural roads may represent improved access to countryside recreation for some
but reduced enjoyment for others.
