Latvian “Transport on demand” pilot program successful in Alūksne and Mazsalaca

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“Transport on demand” could become part of the Latvian public transportation system after a pilot program was successfully launched in the Alūksne and Mazsalaca regions in October 2019, according to a Latvian Radio broadcast on January 1.

Both regions were chosen for the program because they are border regions with a low population density. The pilot program will last through September of this year.

“We have a lot of clients, for me that's around nine who need to go to market and store in Rūjiena probably,” said driver Ģirts Roķis.

The route from Mazsalaca to the Rūjiena market was included upon request from Mazsalaca residents. “I already know the route – the doctor's office, Mazsalaca hospital, pharmacy, post office, store, home,” said the driver. He drives these routes in addition to his regular job as a public bus driver, but emphasized how important the service is for residents, especially for the elderly and those with disabilities.

“I think it's very good, especially as all sorts of, lets say, not young people live here, and of course it's good that you can call and leave when necessary,” said one passenger.

The pilots operate slightly differently in each region to determine the best model. In Mazsalaca the service is available in the whole regional territory, while in Alūksne it operates in five territories on specific days of the week.

“People are literally excited when they call to ask for a ride, always say thanks for the previous trip, are happy about the helpful driver service,” said Vidzeme Planning Regional Mobility Center Manager Marta Riekstiņa.

The goal of the pilot project is to determine whether the service is a good solution for lower density populations where public transportation isn't cost effective. The program will provide data for analysis, helping to understand how the program could be further implemented.

The “Transport on demand” pilot project is currently financed by the European Union and services are free of cost. Models implemented in the future, however, will have to determine which costs can be covered by financing, and how much passengers would have to contribute.
 

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