Budapest Introduces Free Dog and Bicycle Transportation on Public Transport for Pass Holders

In a move that is sure to delight pet owners and cycling enthusiasts alike, Budapest has announced a new rule that will allow pass holders to travel with their dogs and bicycles on public transport free of charge. The change, set to come into effect in January 2025, is a result of a proposal put forward by former mayoral candidate Dávid Vitézy and has garnered widespread support from the Budapest Assembly.

Who Can Benefit?

The new rule will apply to anyone who purchases a monthly, quarterly, or annual Budapest pass, as well as those with monthly Pest County or national passes. This means that a significant portion of the city’s population will be able to take advantage of this exciting new development.

Current Regulations

Under the current regulations, passengers are required to purchase a separate ticket or pass for their dog or bicycle when traveling on BKK (Budapest Transport Center) vehicles. Additionally, bicycle transportation is only permitted on certain BKK routes, typically in hilly areas. However, Vitézy has stated that efforts are underway to expand the number of routes that allow bicycles on board.

The Rationale Behind the Change

Vitézy explained that the main purpose of allowing bicycles on public transport is to provide assistance in certain situations, such as when a cyclist experiences a flat tire, their electric bicycle’s battery runs out, or they encounter a sudden summer downpour or fatigue. In the hilly areas of Budapest, it may be more comfortable for cyclists to ride their bicycles downhill and take public transportation back uphill.

Encouraging Pass Purchases and Speeding Up Boarding

The new rule is also expected to encourage more people to purchase passes, as the added travel benefit makes them more attractive. Furthermore, by eliminating the need for double code scanning on front-door vehicles, the regulation will help speed up the boarding process for affected passengers.

Alignment with BKK’s Plans

The proposal submitted to the Budapest Assembly aligns with BKK’s plans to make dog and bicycle transportation free on the city’s public transport vehicles. The transport organizer is planning several changes from the beginning of next year, which will further simplify the ticket and pass offerings. These changes are in line with the tariff reform implemented on March 1st, which has already made public transport use more affordable and transparent.

Conclusion

The introduction of free dog and bicycle transportation for pass holders on Budapest’s public transport is a welcome development that will benefit many of the city’s residents. By making public transport more accessible, affordable, and attractive, Budapest is taking a significant step towards promoting sustainable mobility and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

Image source: BKK