Curitiba BRT Modernisation – Integrated Bus Rapid Transit

Curitiba’s Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) system, the Rede Integrada de Transporte (RIT), was launched in 1974 and quickly became a benchmark for cost‑effective, high‑capacity public transport. It introduced dedicated bus lanes, pre‑boarding fare collection, and elevated tube stations to achieve metro‑like speed and reliability at a fraction of the cost. Integrated with high‑density development corridors, the system aligned land‑use planning with transit routes, boosting ridership and curbing private‑car dependence.

In 2009 the Green Line corridor was added, expanding capacity and operational efficiency, while a pilot of electric buses began in 2014 to improve sustainability. Feeder lines connect surrounding municipalities, and a single‑fare ticket allows seamless travel across the network. The BRT model is now cited worldwide as a scalable, affordable solution for urban mobility.

The produced impact

Curitiba’s BRT carries over 2 million passengers daily, serving roughly 80 % of the city’s commuters. Hybrid‑bus deployment cut fuel consumption by up to 35 % and markedly reduced emissions. The model has been studied and replicated in more than 150 cities (e.g., Bogotá, Jakarta, Mexico City) and has earned recognition from the World Bank, UN‑Habitat, and C40. Benefits include reduced congestion, improved accessibility for low‑income communities, and better air quality throughout the metropolitan area.

Key lessons learnt

• Integrated planning – Coordinating transport routes with urban growth corridors maximises ridership and limits sprawl.
• Strong political leadership & sustained investment – Long‑term vision focused on sustainability and social equity is essential.
• Phased upgrades & private‑sector involvement – Incremental improvements (e.g., Green Line, electric buses) and partnerships helped maintain service quality amid rising demand.
• Flexibility & local adaptation – BRT’s design can be tailored to diverse contexts, making it a viable metro alternative, especially in emerging economies.