Israel's Transportation Ministry to Take Over Central Bus Stations Amid Neglect Claims

Israel's Ministry of Transportation is advancing a plan to transfer the management of five major central bus stations from the company Nitzba to state control. This move follows widespread allegations of severe neglect, poor maintenance, and inadequate security at stations owned by Nitzba, which operates 17 central bus stations and 9 parking lots across Israel. The ministry aims to gain direct responsibility for managing, maintaining, and improving these facilities to benefit hundreds of thousands of public transport users.

The plan, currently awaiting budget approval from the Ministry of Finance, has been in development for about 18 months. It stems from claims that Nitzba has intentionally neglected its properties, which are situated on valuable urban real estate. Business owners operating within these stations have described conditions as "pigsties," citing issues with cleanliness, broken escalators, lack of security guards, and the presence of drug addicts. Some business owners fear retaliation from Nitzba and have spoken anonymously, describing the company's conduct as "mafia-like" and "cruel."

Reports from the Ramla and Rishon LeZion central bus stations highlight these concerns. In Ramla, business owners have complained about a lack of cleaning, security, and frequent equipment malfunctions, leading to a decline in foot traffic. In Rishon LeZion, one shop owner stated that despite 20 years in the location, no significant renovations have occurred, with ongoing issues like ceiling leaks and foul-smelling restrooms.

Nitzba has faced similar criticism for neglecting other properties, including the Princess Hotel in Eilat and the old central bus station in Haifa, a phenomenon dubbed "the Nitzba method." Critics suggest this is a deliberate tactic to pressure planning authorities into approving zoning changes for residential and commercial development. The proposed transfer would allow the state to directly manage the stations, invest in their upkeep, and improve service levels without relying on Nitzba's current management.