Estonian capital boasts free public transport service for all residents

Date: 5/4/2013

Estonian city Tallinn has become the first capital in the world to introduce a free public transport system for all residents.

The initiative was launched three months ago, and officials have since hailed the early success of the project in boosting passenger numbers across the network.

As Deputy Mayor Taavi Aas explained, while the scheme will cost the city an annual total of €12 million (£10 million) in lost ticket sales, it is expected to bring substantial benefits to the area's economy.

Indeed, Tallinn's Transport Authority claimed that the number of cars on the roads has fallen by as much as 15 per cent, while passenger numbers have increased by ten per cent. 

"People now move around the city more frequently during weekends," Mr Aas said. "This means they also spend more money, which boosts the economy."

In order to use the service people have to be registered citizens of the city, with the only charge being that of a transit pass which can be bought for €2 (£1.70).

Passengers can then take advantage of buses, streetcars and trolleybuses, and local residents have also praised the initiative.

"I live on a tight budget since I don’t have too much work right now," said Mare Tulp.

"I need to save money wherever I can, so I’m very happy with the free public transport scheme. This is a good thing for the common person."

The scheme was devised by Mayor Edgar Savisaar, who was exploring methods to reduce congestion and pollution while at the same time alleviating financial pressure placed on the city's poor.

And with Mr Savisaar believing that people will save a month's salary every year, it is little surprise that nine out of ten residents have revealed they are satisfied with the project.

However, Valdo Randpere from the conservative Reform Party criticised the initiative. 

"There are lots of other areas where the city should invest but doesn’t have the money. It all sounds nice, but it’s a lot of populism," he said.

Posted by Nick Anderson

International Transport News and Sustainable Transport News