The introduction of free public transport in Montpellier from December: a decision which creates dissension in the public transport sector

Free buses and trams in Montpellier: a divisive decision

\n\nSince the announcement of the establishment of the free buses and trams has Montpellier from December, the debate rages in the world of public transport. While some see this measure as an effective way to promote mobility and reduce the use of private cars, others see it as a threat to the economic balance of the sector.\n\n

Free access, a tool for democratizing mobility

\n\nThe initiative of the municipality of Montpellier is above all a response to a double problem: that of the environment, by promoting less polluting modes of transport, and that of accessibility, by making public transport accessible to all, regardless of their income. \n\n"Men, women, young people, old people, employees, the unemployed, students... free buses and trams must allow everyone to move freely throughout the city", explains the mayor of Montpellier.\n\n

The concern of the public transport sector

\n\nHowever, within the world of public transport, the measure is not unanimous. At issue: the potentially disastrous economic consequences for the sector. Revenue from ticket sales represents a significant part of the budget of transport companies, which raises fears of a deterioration in the quality of service.\n\n“We must not be fooled, free access has a cost. If we eliminate revenues from users, we will have to compensate them in one way or another,” worries a representative of a union of carriers.\n\n

How to finance free access?

\n\nSolutions are being considered to address this loss of income. Among them, the increase in local taxes or the introduction of a special tax financed by businesses. \n\nFor the moment, the debate remains open and the establishment of the free buses and trams in Montpellier from December is far from unanimous. The only certainty is that this measure marks a clear desire to rethink urban mobility in the light of the environmental and social challenges of our time. \n\n