RMV and NVV commemorate anniversary, outline ambitions for future expansion - RMV and NVV commemorate anniversary, laying plans for increased development
Hesse Public Transport: RMV and NVV Commemorate Milestones, Outline Future Developments
In today's era, the Germany Ticket has revolutionized public transportation (PT), but three decades ago, the landscape was vastly different, especially in Hesse. Two transport associations, RMV and NVV, were established in 1995, initiating a significant transformation. They consolidated a haphazard arrangement of fares and schedules, resulting in a significant surge in passenger numbers. The transport associations aim to prolong this upward trend.
"One timetable, one ticket, one fare" was the slogan as RMV was introduced, asserted Knut Ringat, the CEO of Rhine-Main Transport Association. At the time, the achievements in the RMV region served as a blueprint for nationwide changes with the Germany Ticket. Three decades ago, a wave of passengers embraced public transportation as it became less complicated to use.
A Record-Breaking Year Despite Obstacles
Last year, the RMV registered a record-breaking 825 million passengers. "This was accomplished despite staffing shortages, construction disruptions, and the trend of working from home," noted Ringat. The association expects this growth trend to continue.
The numerous construction projects underway in the RMV region, while causing delays and cancellations, are seen as catalysts for future improvement. Ringat refers to the next five years as the "decade of construction": "The situation will remain challenging for the next five years, and at times may worsen. We must persist before offering a greatly improved service."
Regarding the criticism of staffing shortages in control centers, Ringat anticipates improvements towards the end of this year. Deutsche Bahn has bolstered training and is modernizing control centers, he said.
More Funding Required for Enhanced Services
Expanding services beyond the completion of expansion plans necessitates increased funding from the federal and state governments according to RMV CEO. To accommodate price increases, "we need more funds than before," said Ringat.
Improved train offerings, along with the simplicity of ticketing through the Germany Ticket, promise to make using public transportation more enjoyable, according to Ringat.
Connecting Rural Regions
Improving accessibility in less urbanized areas is a top priority for the RMV. The association is focusing on on-demand traffic that can be requested at will. Such services already exist within the association. In the future, these vehicles will be autonomous, with a pilot project with Deutsche Bahn running in Darmstadt and the Offenbach district.
Public Transport in Rural Areas Dominates NVV Discussions
Based in Kassel, the North Hessian Transport Association (NVV) emphasizes the need to better connect rural regions. The association has expanded its offerings, particularly in bus traffic, with initiatives like "Every village - Every hour" in recent years. The goal of providing bus or train service at least once an hour is almost achieved everywhere.
This, combined with the Germany Ticket, has led to continuous growth in demand, as the NVV detailed in its 2024 annual report: Passenger numbers in regional bus traffic rose by 10.3 percent compared to the previous year.
Reliable and Adequate Funding Essential for Both Urban and Rural Transportation
Both cities and countryside require dependable and sufficient funding from the federal and state governments, asserts an NVV spokesperson. Further expansion requires an increase in funding.
Improvements in punctuality and reliability are urgently needed, says NVV's Managing Director Marian Volmer. She hopes that additional funds can be allocated for North Hesse as part of the current investment program under discussion by the federal government, to significantly enhance the infrastructure in the rail network, train stations, and road construction.
Celebrations Planned for Three Decade Anniversary
The RMV is hosting a celebration for invited guests next Wednesday (28th May) at the Römer in Frankfurt to mark the 30th anniversary of its inception. Throughout the summer, passengers will have opportunities to participate in campaigns, actions, and prize draws. The NVV is launching a passenger campaign on Wednesday titled "You are the Best", which includes a prize draw. A larger celebration is planned for September.
References:1. Adopted fourth local transport plan for Wiesbaden in late 2024.2. Germany Ticket initiatives.3. State-wide efforts toward sustainable and efficient transport modes.4. Embracing cutting-edge technology.5. Autonomous shuttle technology in Hesse.
"Vocational training programs could provide a solution to address the staffing shortages in control centers, ensuring a more reliable public transportation system in EC countries like Germany, as advocated by Deutsche Bahn's modernization efforts."
"Investments in vocational training, particularly in the field of transportation, could lead to financial benefits for the industry in EC countries, considering the growing demand for transportation services and the opportunities for expansion beyond current infrastructure limits."
