A recent report from the European Commission highlights significant disparities in public transport satisfaction across European cities, underscoring a geographical divide in residents’ experiences. While northern and western European cities boast higher satisfaction rates, those in southern and eastern Europe tend to express lower levels of contentment.
Overall, approximately 70% of residents across Europe are generally satisfied with their city’s public transport services. However, this figure masks a notable variation, with satisfaction levels ranging dramatically from as low as 29% in cities like Rome and Tirana to a striking 91% in Vienna.
Geographic Trends in Satisfaction
The report reveals a clear trend: cities in northern and western Europe enjoy higher public transport satisfaction rates due to factors such as affordability, safety, frequency, and reliability. In contrast, urban centers in southern and eastern Europe report lower satisfaction scores, reflecting systemic challenges in their public transport systems.
Among non-capital cities, the disparity is even more pronounced, with satisfaction rates varying from 22% in Palermo, Italy, to 95% in Zurich, Switzerland. These figures indicate that while capital cities generally report higher satisfaction levels, exceptions like Rome and Ankara exist, where residents express significant concerns about safety and service quality.
Safety Concerns
Safety perceptions in public transport vary widely among capital cities. Notably, Rome stands out for its low perception of safety, with less than half of its residents feeling secure using public transport. Additionally, Rome ranks poorly in ease of access, frequency, and reliability, contributing to its status as one of the least satisfying cities for public transport in Europe.
Call for Improved Funding and Active Mobility
In response to these challenges, a coalition of 43 European transport organizations is advocating for increased EU funding to enhance public transport services. This push comes amid growing concerns about the climate crisis, emphasizing the need for sustainable transport solutions.
The European Commission is also working to promote behavioral changes that favor active mobility and public transport, encouraging residents to adopt more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.
Conclusion
The findings underscore the importance of public transport in shaping residents’ overall satisfaction with their cities. As European cities continue to grapple with varying satisfaction levels, the call for improved public transport funding and services is crucial for fostering a more sustainable and equitable urban environment.
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