A study on Melbourne’s city tram system

Melbourne’s tram network is one of the biggest tram systems in the world and it is a vital part of inner city transport. (VICSIG, 2011) The trams operate 20 hours a day, covering 2445 route kms, with 1770 tram stops provided along the way.



Melbourne's tram system
picture Cred: Wikipedia

Trams in Melbourne are second most used form of public transport service just after the railway network. In terms of its operation and running on the road, trams are given the priority at the intersections, and on some congested streets, trams also have the priority in road usage.

The trams in Melbourne have become a unique feature and part of the city’s character, it is not only used as a transport service, but also attractive to the tourists.

In more detail, different classes of trams used, such as W-class trams, Z-class trams, A-class trams and C, D class. They are classified according to their different characteristics in aspects of carry capacity, speed, and provision of services. There has been additional service added into the tram system, with regard to the improvement of access for the disabled.


Improved access for the disabled people
image Cred: practical public

Another interesting feature of Melbourne’s tram is that there have been suggestion from the public on bring back the tram conductors on the tram system. Many see it as opportunities for fostering a ‘tram culture’ within the community.

  

tram conductors

image Cred: facebook: bring back tram conductors on Melbourne's tram system

The video below will help to get a real sense of the city tram network at Melbourne and understand how the tram system is operated on the road.
Video 1: Melbourne’s Tram

This video provides a detail look at the very large, thriving and expanding tramway system of Melbourne. The trams likely run everywhere across the city and this video is fun.

Another video is also accessed here for which it sees the tram system runs perfectly within the road network, vehicles can pass by the tram or even run follow behind the tram.

Video 2: Melbourne Trams, 2009

                                                               

Reference

Brient, A, (2010) Bring Back Trams Conductors on Melbourne’s Tram System, http://archive.premier.vic.gov.au/share-your-ideas/item/root/bring-back-tram-conductors-on-melbournes-tram-system.html, (accessed: 25/04/2011).

Wikipedia, (2011) Trams in Melbourne, http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Trams_in_Melbourne, (accessed: 28/04/2011).