Money

Luxembourg to maintain free public transport

It’s no surprise that on the anniversary of such a pricey initiative as free public transport, almost everyone who uses trams, buses and trains in this tiny EU state says they are happy with it.

From a survey of locals by euronews:

When you have free transport, it’s much easier to make a quick decision when choosing between public transport and a private car. And that’s not only good for the environment, it’s also very practical.

As you might guess, free transport comes at a price; ultimately, it’s paid for by taxpayers, but it makes society fairer, explains the Minister of Transport and Public Works.

Luxembourg is also promoting free public transport as a way to combat pollution and climate change by diverting people away from private vehicles and onto trains and buses. However, for now, cars remain popular even here, although some Luxembourgers already see free transport as a right rather than a gift or bonus from the government.