Core Viewpoint - The introduction of the "Night Return Bus" in Hangzhou aims to address the transportation needs of residents during late-night hours, providing a flexible and demand-responsive service to enhance public transport accessibility [1][10]. Group 1: Service Overview - The "Night Return Bus" operates from 9 PM to 11:30 PM, focusing on the core residential areas of the Pude region in Hangzhou, which includes 9 large residential complexes with approximately 8,700 households [4][10]. - Passengers can book the bus via a WeChat mini-program, allowing for real-time adjustments to the route based on demand, thus optimizing service efficiency [7][9]. - The service has shown a significant increase in ridership, with 370 passengers served in the first 9 days, representing over a 30% increase compared to fixed-route services [10]. Group 2: Operational Efficiency - The "Night Return Bus" eliminates unnecessary travel by allowing passengers to specify their drop-off points, thus reducing operational costs and improving service targeting [2][9]. - The system ensures that the maximum waiting time for passengers does not exceed 15 minutes, enhancing the convenience of the service [6][10]. - The initiative reflects a broader trend in urban public transport, where cities are increasingly adopting customized bus services to meet specific commuter needs, particularly during off-peak hours [12][13].