Slovakia's PM Withdraws Train Fare Reduction Proposal, Experts Question Effectiveness

Prime Minister Robert Fico withdrew a proposal to temporarily reduce train ticket prices from Wednesday's government meeting, despite initially presenting it as a way to encourage people to switch from cars to public transport. The plan aimed to create pressure for shifting people from personal car travel to mass transit. However, transportation experts argue that fare reductions alone will not attract passengers to trains, emphasizing that improved service reliability would be more effective in boosting ridership. The withdrawal suggests the government may be reconsidering its approach to promoting public transportation usage amid ongoing discussions about the country's transport infrastructure and environmental goals.