Incorrect Location Of Stop 056531: Cascais Terminal

Introduction

This article addresses the issue of the stop 056531, known as "Cascais (Terminal)," being incorrectly located. The purpose of this detailed discussion is to accurately pinpoint the problem, provide necessary context, and propose a solution for correcting the stop's location. Ensuring public transportation data accuracy is crucial for commuters and transit agencies. Addressing such discrepancies promptly guarantees reliable information for planning routes, schedules, and overall travel experiences. Let's delve into the specifics of this location error and explore the steps needed to rectify it.

Detailed Error Description

The primary issue at hand involves the misplacement of the Cascais (Terminal) stop, identified by the code 056531. Currently, the stop's geographic coordinates in the system do not align with its actual physical location. The correct coordinates for this stop should be 38.7019552 (latitude) and -9.4189353 (longitude). Relocating the stop to these precise coordinates is essential for providing accurate and reliable information to passengers using the Carris Metropolitana network. By rectifying this error, users will have access to trustworthy data that enhances their travel planning and overall commuting experience. This level of accuracy is vital for maintaining the integrity of the transportation system and ensuring customer satisfaction.

Affected Areas

The incorrect location of the Cascais (Terminal) stop specifically impacts the following area:

• [x] Área 1 (Viação Alvorada)
• [ ] Área 2 (Rodoviária de Lisboa)
• [ ] Área 3 (TST)
• [ ] Área 4 (Alsa Todi)

This indicates that the discrepancy primarily affects the operations and data related to Viação Alvorada. Correcting this error will directly improve the accuracy of transit information within this operational zone, benefiting both the transit agency and the passengers who rely on it. Focusing on the specific areas affected ensures that resources are allocated efficiently and the most critical issues are addressed promptly. Understanding the scope of the impact is crucial for effective problem-solving and maintaining the reliability of the entire transit network.

Expected Values: Corrected Situation

The desired outcome is to have the Cascais (Terminal) stop (056531) accurately positioned at the coordinates 38.7019552 (latitude) and -9.4189353 (longitude). This correction will ensure that all related data, including route planning, real-time updates, and scheduling, reflects the actual location of the stop. By aligning the digital information with the physical reality, commuters can trust the data provided by Carris Metropolitana, leading to improved travel experiences and greater confidence in the public transportation system. The accurate positioning of transit stops is fundamental to the overall efficiency and user satisfaction of the network.

Visual Aid: Screenshots

To further illustrate the problem, the following image provides a visual representation of the discrepancy. This visual aid helps in understanding the extent of the error and the importance of correcting it.

Additional Context

Ensuring the accuracy of transit stop locations is paramount for maintaining a reliable and user-friendly public transportation system. Precise coordinates enable effective route planning, accurate real-time updates, and seamless integration with navigation apps. Addressing this specific error involving the Cascais (Terminal) stop will contribute to the overall quality of service provided by Carris Metropolitana. By promptly correcting these inaccuracies, the transit agency demonstrates its commitment to providing dependable and trustworthy information to its passengers. Accurate data is essential for fostering confidence in the public transportation system and encouraging greater ridership. This attention to detail reflects a dedication to excellence and a focus on meeting the needs of the community it serves.

Importance of Accurate Transit Data

Maintaining accurate transit data is crucial for several reasons. First and foremost, it directly impacts the user experience. When transit stops are accurately located, passengers can rely on the information provided by transit agencies to plan their journeys effectively. This includes using real-time tracking apps, scheduling tools, and route planning services. Inaccurate data can lead to missed connections, delays, and overall frustration for commuters.

Moreover, accurate transit data is essential for the efficient operation of the transportation system itself. Transit agencies rely on precise location information to optimize routes, manage schedules, and allocate resources effectively. When stop locations are incorrect, it can throw off the entire system, leading to inefficiencies and increased operational costs. By ensuring that all transit data is accurate and up-to-date, agencies can improve the overall performance of their networks and provide a better service to the public. This commitment to accuracy reflects a dedication to excellence and a focus on continuous improvement.

Additionally, accurate transit data plays a vital role in promoting accessibility and inclusivity. Passengers with disabilities, in particular, rely on precise location information to navigate the transit system safely and independently. When stop locations are inaccurate, it can create significant challenges for these individuals, making it more difficult for them to access public transportation. By ensuring that all data is accurate and accessible, transit agencies can create a more inclusive and equitable transportation system for all members of the community. This focus on accessibility reflects a commitment to serving the needs of all passengers, regardless of their abilities.

Steps to Correct the Stop Location

To correct the location of the Cascais (Terminal) stop, several steps need to be taken. First, the transit agency should verify the reported coordinates (38.7019552, -9.4189353) using reliable sources such as GPS data or on-site inspections. This verification process ensures that the proposed location is indeed accurate and reflects the physical reality of the stop. Once the coordinates have been confirmed, the agency should update the transit data system with the corrected information. This includes updating the GTFS (General Transit Feed Specification) data, which is used by many transit apps and services to provide real-time information to passengers. Accuracy in these systems is paramount for user satisfaction.

After updating the transit data system, the agency should conduct thorough testing to ensure that the corrected location is properly reflected in all relevant applications and services. This testing process may involve using various transit apps, web-based mapping tools, and internal systems to verify that the stop is displayed correctly and that all related data (e.g., routes, schedules) are accurate. Any discrepancies or issues identified during testing should be promptly addressed and resolved. This iterative process of testing and refinement helps ensure that the corrected location is accurately represented across all platforms.

Finally, the agency should communicate the corrected location to passengers and other stakeholders through appropriate channels. This may include updating the agency's website, social media accounts, and customer service channels with the corrected information. In addition, the agency should consider notifying users of transit apps and services about the change so that they can update their devices accordingly. By proactively communicating the corrected location, the agency can help minimize confusion and ensure that passengers have access to the most accurate information possible. This commitment to transparency and communication reflects a dedication to providing excellent customer service.

Conclusion

In conclusion, addressing the incorrect location of the Cascais (Terminal) stop is essential for maintaining the reliability and user-friendliness of the Carris Metropolitana public transportation system. By promptly correcting this error and ensuring the accuracy of all transit data, the agency can improve the overall experience for passengers, optimize the efficiency of the transportation system, and promote accessibility and inclusivity for all members of the community. This commitment to accuracy and excellence reflects a dedication to serving the needs of the public and providing a high-quality transportation service. For more information on GTFS and its role in public transportation, visit the GTFS official website.