Free Public Transport Offered on Election Day in Israel
Translated & summarized from Channel 9 by baba
Israel is providing free intercity bus and train travel on election day, October 27, to encourage voter turnout. The initiative, costing the state approximately 3.5 million shekels, covers most long-distance routes but excludes local transport.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Free intercity bus and train travel will be available on Israeli election day.
- The initiative aims to help voters reach polling stations without cost.
- Over 660 bus routes and all train lines are included in the offer.
- Local transport and travel to Eilat have specific conditions or exclusions.
- The program is expected to cost the state 3.5 million shekels.
Israel will offer free rides on most intercity buses and trains on October 27, the day of the Knesset elections. The Central Elections Committee has approved 660 bus routes for free travel, beginning at 8 PM on October 26 and continuing until the end of service on election day. These routes primarily cover intercity travel exceeding 15 kilometers. Local city transport, including buses and trams, as well as the Haifa cable car, will operate as usual with standard fares. Passengers on trains will receive free tickets from ticket machines or counters, while bus passengers will not need tickets or proof of residency for most routes. An exception is made for travel to Eilat, where passengers must prove residency in the city to receive a free bus ticket. The initiative aims to facilitate voter access to polling stations, allowing citizens to travel to their designated voting locations without incurring costs, though the benefit can be used for any travel. In the 2022 elections, the Israeli Railways reported a 33% increase in passenger traffic on election day compared to a typical weekday. The total cost to the state for this transportation subsidy is estimated at 3.5 million shekels, funded by the Central Elections Committee and allocated through the Ministry of Transport to the respective transport companies.
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