Innovative On-Demand Bus Service to Launch in Budapest’s 16th District

In an exciting development for public transportation in Budapest, the Budapest Transport Center (BKK) has announced plans to introduce a flexible, on-demand bus service in the city’s 16th district. Set to launch in 2025, this innovative service aims to connect the Csobaj-bánya area, which currently lacks efficient public transport options, to the wider transportation network. The unique feature of this bus line is its ability to adapt its route based on passenger requests, rather than following a predetermined path.

Connecting Csobaj-bánya to Cinkota HÉV Station

The primary goal of this new bus service is to provide residents of the Csobaj-bánya area with a convenient and efficient means of reaching Cinkota HÉV station. By integrating this suburban neighborhood into the public transportation system, commuters will be able to quickly access the HÉV line, which offers rapid connections to central Budapest. The introduction of this flexible bus route is expected to significantly improve the quality of life for those living in the area, reducing travel times and increasing accessibility.

How the Flexible On-Demand System Works

The on-demand bus service, designated as line 274, will operate within a defined area using a flexible routing system. Instead of adhering to a fixed route, the buses will navigate through predetermined streets based on passenger requests. Users will be required to specify their desired pickup and drop-off points when making a reservation, allowing the system’s software to optimize the route accordingly.

The pickup and drop-off points will be clearly marked with signs at designated locations, such as intersections or street sections, rather than traditional bus stops with physical infrastructure. This approach ensures that the buses can easily adapt their routes to accommodate passenger needs, regardless of the direction from which they approach the designated points.

Public Consultation and Community Engagement

To ensure that the new bus service meets the needs and expectations of the local community, BKK has initiated a public consultation process. Residents and commuters are encouraged to provide their input and suggestions through an online questionnaire available on the BKK’s public consultation website. Additionally, BKK representatives will be present at the BKK Agóra event on October 14, 2024, at the Árpádföldi Community House, to engage with the public and gather further feedback.

The DREAM_PACE Project

The implementation of this innovative on-demand bus service is made possible through the DREAM_PACE project, a three-year initiative funded by the European Union’s Interreg Central Europe research and development framework program. The project, which commenced on March 1, 2023, aims to improve public transportation services in peripheral and less densely populated areas. As a project partner, BKK is tasked with developing on-demand public transport services within Budapest. More information about the DREAM_PACE project can be found on the BKK website.

Conclusion

The introduction of the flexible, on-demand bus service in Budapest’s 16th district marks a significant step forward in the city’s efforts to enhance public transportation and improve connectivity for its residents. By leveraging innovative technology and adapting to passenger needs, this new service has the potential to transform the way people travel in the Csobaj-bánya area, making daily commutes more convenient and efficient. As the launch date approaches, the Budapest Transport Center remains committed to engaging with the local community and incorporating their feedback to ensure the success of this groundbreaking initiative.

Image source: BKK