Anticipated continuous increase in VBB ticket prices as per the VBB head
In a recent announcement, the Verkehrsverbund Berlin-Brandenburg (VBB)—the transport association responsible for public transport in Berlin and Brandenburg—has decided to increase fares by an average of 6% starting next year. This decision comes amidst ongoing concerns about the quality of public transport in the region and the impact of inflation on energy costs.
Despite the price hike, the VBB expects no measurable decrease in demand for public transport. According to VBB chief, Christoph Heuing, while extreme price increases might lead to a drop in usage, the 6% increase will not have such an effect.
Heuing has been vocal about his criticism towards subsidized offers like the Germany ticket and the 365-euro ticket in Vienna. He argues that these offers do not provide additional funds for the overall public transport system but instead divert funds away from it.
Heuing also emphasizes the need to address the infrastructure issue in a different way, stating that the poor quality of public transport is primarily attributed to infrastructure problems that have been neglected for decades. He cites overcrowded trains, numerous breakdowns, and delays as evidence of this neglect.
This year, tickets have already become an average of 7.5% more expensive. If inflation stabilizes at a low level, the extent of the fare increases in the coming years will decrease accordingly, according to Heuing. The price increases in local and regional transport are based on the average inflation and energy costs of the past five years.
The VBB expects another inflation shock from the energy sector in the years 2022 and 2023. Despite these challenges, Heuing remains optimistic about the future of public transport in Berlin and Brandenburg, urging society to address the infrastructure issue in a more comprehensive manner.
People's mobility habits, including the use of cars and public transport, are not significantly affected by changes in fuel prices or fare prices, according to Heuing. This suggests that despite the price increases, the demand for public transport in Berlin and Brandenburg may remain steady.
As the VBB prepares for further price increases in the coming years, it remains to be seen how these changes will impact the public's reliance on and satisfaction with public transport in Berlin and Brandenburg.
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