Local Leaders Demand Action on Public Transport Crisis

Heads of local authorities met with the Ministry of Transportation on Wednesday to demand an immediate solution to ongoing disruptions in the public transport services provided by the company "Tnuufa". Mayors and council heads from Beit Shemesh, Ariel, Karnei Shomron, Alfei Menashe, and Kiryat Ye'arim expressed frustration over canceled and unreliable bus routes that are significantly impacting residents' daily lives.

The officials stated that thousands of passengers in numerous communities, including Beit Shemesh, Ariel, and settlements in the West Bank, are struggling to reach workplaces, educational institutions, and essential destinations like hospitals and IDF bases. "The residents of Ariel and the West Bank will not be hostages," declared Ariel Mayor Ya'ir Shtabbon, emphasizing that the current situation is a result of governmental failure.

Beit Shemesh Mayor Shmuel Greenberg asserted that his city's residents cannot be held "hostage by Tnuufa company," placing responsibility on the Ministry of Transportation to ensure reliable public service. Karnei Shomron Council Head Yehonatan Kuznitz noted that despite concessions granted to Tnuufa, the company is failing to provide basic agreed-upon services, leaving residents uncertain about their travel plans.

Alfei Menashe Council Head Shi Rozentsveig highlighted long-standing issues with inadequate public transport in his area, causing residents to miss medical appointments, work, and court hearings. Kiryat Ye'arim Council Head Yitzhak Revitz added that cancellations prevent residents from planning their days. The leaders collectively demanded that Transportation Minister Miri Regev intervene immediately, threatening escalation if a solution is not found and calling for Tnuufa to be restored to full functionality or replaced by a capable company.