private cars and public transport

Motorists in the German city of Leipzig are to be offered free public transport this week in a bid to cut congestion.

The authorities’ decision comes amid concerns over commuting times and lengthening traffic jams.

The hope is that motorists will be persuaded to leave their cars at home permanently.

German drivers offered free public transport“, BBC News, 10 April 2012.

High fuel prices have had no effect. I predict that this ‘carrot’ will not get drivers to switch to public transport either. Tough ‘sticks’ are needed, such as prohibiting entry into the city by private vehicle during certain hours of the day, or charging dearly for the privilege.

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