Cashless bus transport in Erfurt: vision of the future or real hurdle?

Cashless bus transport in Erfurt: vision of the future or real hurdle?

In a significant step towards the digitization of local transport, the Erfurt bus network of the Gesellschaft für Verkehrsbetrieb, better known as EVAG, will switch to cashless payments from 2025. This means that passengers can only purchase their tickets by card or other cashless payment methods. This decision is part of a comprehensive modernization strategy that aims to make local public transport more efficient. The EVAG spokesman emphasizes that cash payments will continue to be possible at ticket machines and in the city's service points.

Despite these positive intentions, opinions on the planned measure are divided. While some citizens support the progress, others are skeptical. The older generation in particular faces challenges when it comes to getting used to new payment methods. A reader commented on Facebook and described the change as “snotty”, which illustrates the dissatisfaction of many people with the new regulation.

Problematic for seniors and children

Particular attention is paid to the concerns of older people and families with children. A frequently expressed concern concerns access to ticket machines, which are often only sporadically located at stops and generally do not accept notes. Commentators complain that the machine can only be found at about every second or third stop. This lack of options could make it much more difficult for many to use public transport.

Families with children are also worried. "What do the children do when they need a ticket and want to pay? Do they then have to fare dodge because they may have forgotten their ticket or monthly pass?" asks a worried parent. The concern that spontaneous bus rides without cash will become much more complicated is particularly important for students who may not yet have their own card or smartphones for app payments.

The discussion about the abolition of cash in Erfurt's local transport shows how technology and the associated modernization can meet the existing needs of different population groups. It remains to be seen to what extent these new regulations will be accepted in practice and whether EVAG will respond to the concerns expressed. At a time when digitalization is being promoted in many areas of life, the path to comfortable public transport is full of challenges and opportunities.

The topic and its effects on the different age groups and economic classes lead to intensive discussions among the people of Erfurt. Forming opinions is crucial, as EVAG also strives to adapt local public transport to the needs of all citizens. However, the challenges associated with such a step remain a central issue for the future of local transport in Thuringia.

More information about the planned changes to Erfurt's local transport and the associated reactions can be found in a current article on www.thueringen24.de.