Public Transport Use Declines Among Israeli Workers Amid Traffic Woes

A new report from Israel's Central Bureau of Statistics reveals a significant drop in public transportation usage among employed Israelis aged 20 and over. Only 16% of workers now commute via public transport, down from 20% a decade ago. This decline occurs despite worsening traffic congestion on the nation's roads.

The report breaks down public transport use to 12% for buses or shared taxis and 3.5% for trains. Conversely, the percentage of workers commuting by private or commercial vehicles has increased to 62%, up from 58% ten years prior.

Satisfaction with public transport varies by city. In Jerusalem, 50% of residents find the light rail meets their needs. However, in Tel Aviv, only 28% express similar satisfaction with the light rail. Across the country, satisfaction with the frequency of intercity buses is low.

The findings highlight a growing reliance on private vehicles and dissatisfaction with public transit options, even as road traffic intensifies.