Montpellier introduced free public transport last year. Now, after several months, the first results of this decision have been published. At first glance, it seems that this move was very beneficial for the diversification of transportation in the city.
The number of public transport trips increased by more than 20 percent during this period. The figures also show that the number of people using public transport increased by 23.7 percent in the first three months of 2024 compared to the same period in 2019.
Officials also say there has been a particular increase in the number of off-peak journeys. The most likely interpretation of this phenomenon is that residents are starting to use public transport more for non-compulsory activities.
This is very interesting data, which can show that it is not so easy to motivate passengers to switch to alternative modes of transportation when it comes to daily trips to work and other obligations. However, it is also important to know that residents are willing to change their habits when it comes to entertainment. Trips for other purposes also bring a large share of traffic, so this success is also very significant.
Free public transport has been operating since last year
Montpellier introduced free public transport in December last year. The project itself was initiated by the new mayor, elected in 2020, when he came out with a plan to make public transport free. Transport first stopped charging on weekends, and later became free for those under 18 and over 65. The motive behind the project is to encourage the use of public transport and fight against pollution.
Although public transport is free, residents are still required to have passes, while a fare is still charged to tourists and visitors. The ticket price for them is 1.6 euros.
