What is a contraflow bus lane?

A contraflow bus lane is specifically a bus lane that operates in the opposite direction to the regular flow of traffic. This means that buses can travel against the flow on that particular section of road. The primary purpose of contraflow bus lanes is to improve public transport efficiency by allowing buses to bypass traffic congestion that would otherwise impede their progress in the same direction as other vehicles.

This approach is often implemented in urban areas where space is limited, and it helps facilitate faster and more reliable bus services. By allowing buses to travel against the flow, passenger waiting times are reduced, and public transportation becomes a more attractive option, thereby encouraging its use and potentially reducing congestion overall.

While lanes designated for buses only focus primarily on bus use, they typically align with the flow of traffic. Similarly, lanes used during peak hours or temporary lanes for construction serve different logistical purposes.