The 9-euro ticket is half-time and those involved draw mixed to positive conclusions. It has neither swept the streets empty nor led to the collapse of local transport.
Munich (dpa / lby) – The half-time balance of the 9-euro ticket in Bavaria is mixed to positive. Although there were sometimes overcrowded trains, the great chaos feared by some did not materialize. Overall, the problems were more of a one-off event, according to the Bavarian state association of the ProBahn passenger association. The Bavarian Regiobahn speaks of light and shadow that the action brought with it. Agilis is happy about the high level of attention that the ticket for local transport has brought.
“Anyone who has bought this offer ticket also uses it,” says Agilis. One has the hope of showing people “that there are alternatives to the car”. The provider reports a significant increase in passenger numbers. And there is also no sign of fatigue in the second month. She is “at a consistently high level”.
Overall, Agilis reports few problems. However, the company still advises against taking a bike on the train: In some cases there was no more space for the bikes.
The Bavarian Regiobahn is also happy about the additional passengers. On the other hand, “like all other railway companies, we are currently struggling with overcrowded trains, which sometimes result in long delays” and lead to displeasure, especially among subscribers. In addition, bicycles could not always be taken here either. The overall level of popularity can also be seen from the fact that around 200,000 tickets were sold from this one provider alone last week. There is currently no Bavaria-wide overview – also because the tickets are valid nationwide.
At ProBahn, you see the first month and a half as clear evidence that you can convince more people of public transport. Above all, it is crucial to make use easy and low-threshold – and cheaper than the petrol costs of a commuter driving a car, says the spokesman with a view to the time after the 9-euro ticket and possible connection offers. “It doesn’t have to be a gift, but inexpensive.”
