Sir, The major criticism which is made of the LUAS project is that it does not have enough capacity to carry the projected number of users, and will thus lead to increased congestion. This view was given added credence when an article (July 30th)
by Dr Garret FitzGerald used a number of figures to show that the maximum capacity of LUAS would be less than 2,500 passengers an hour.
This article assumed that each LUAS would consist of only one tram car of 200 person capacity.
In practice, up to three tram cars will be coupled together for peak period operation. For instance, the DART normally operates as a two car unit but at peak periods it is frequently run with six cars.
Using Dr FitzGerald's methodology, but assuming three tram sets, a four minute frequency and a 50 per cent loading gives a capacity of 4,500 passengers an hour. Even though I have assumed a lesser loading factor, the capacity is almost double that calculated by Dr FitzGerald.
The recent debate on capacity and congestion has started off with incorrect information. The DTI Report was prepared by prominent consultants who have accurately predicted capacity. It followed the largest consultation process of any major project. It is now past time to implement LUAS, before the rapid increase in car ownership strangles the city. Yours, etc.,
Member, Consultative Committee, Dublin Transportation Office, Greystones,
Co Wicklow.