Budapest Enhances Public Transport Safety Through Collaborative Efforts

The Budapest Transport Center (BKK) and the Budapest Police Department (BRFK) have renewed their commitment to ensuring safer and more orderly public transportation in the Hungarian capital. This ongoing partnership, which began in 2020, aims to increase passenger security and improve the overall travel experience for both residents and visitors.

January 2025 Operations

In the first month of 2025, the joint initiative demonstrated significant results:

• 15 public transport routes were thoroughly inspected
• Over 33,000 passengers were checked for valid tickets and proper conduct
• Multiple infractions were detected, including one wanted person apprehended

The coordinated efforts involved BKK ticket inspectors working in 4-6 groups per shift, alongside BRFK officers and municipal law enforcement personnel. Their focus extended beyond vehicles to include stops, stations, and surrounding areas, including metro station exits.

Specific Actions and Outcomes

The January operations yielded several notable results:

• One individual with an outstanding warrant was arrested
• Two people were detained for misdemeanor offenses
• A missing minor was located in the Corvin Quarter underpass
• Fines were issued for public cleanliness violations and public alcohol consumption
• 16 individuals received warnings for drinking alcohol in public spaces

Targeted Routes and Areas

The inspections covered a wide range of public transport options:

• Tram lines 1, 1A, 4, 6, and 50
• Metro line M3 between Deák Ferenc Square and Újpest-központ
• Bus routes 5, 7, 7E, 8E, 107, 108E, 110, 112, and 133E along the Rákóczi Road-Thököly Road axis
• Increased presence at major metro stations including Blaha Lujza Square, Lehel Square, Népliget, Határ Road, and Eastern Railway Station

Ongoing Initiatives

BKK’s commitment to improving Budapest’s livability extends beyond these joint operations:

• Regular monitoring of bus lane usage
• Initiating clean-up and control measures in high-traffic public areas
• Collaborating with BRFK to inspect taxi services and other passenger transport vehicles

Future Developments

To further enhance passenger safety, BKK plans to introduce a new feature in its BudapestGO mobile application by the end of March. This update will allow users to directly request assistance for situations requiring intervention, such as disruptive behavior or emergencies, with a simple button press.

As these collaborative efforts continue throughout the year, BKK and BRFK aim to refine their approach based on public feedback, ensuring that Budapest’s public transportation system remains safe, efficient, and user-friendly for all.

Image source: BKK