Montpellier, a vibrant city in southern France, has joined the league of European cities providing free public transport to all residents. Following in the footsteps of Luxembourg and Tallinn, Montpellier implemented this initiative on Thursday evening, allowing residents with a special pass to access trams and buses without any charge. The move is part of a broader commitment to environmental sustainability and enhanced purchasing power, according to Mayor Michael Delafosse, who promised free public transport during his election in 2020.
Montpellier initially introduced free weekend rides in 2020, and in the subsequent year, the policy was extended to individuals aged below 18 or over 65 throughout the entire week. With the recent expansion to all residents, Montpellier aims to encourage a shift towards sustainable transportation and reduce reliance on private cars, particularly amid rising petrol prices. Mayor Delafosse expressed a willingness to support other European mayors in adopting similar initiatives, framing it as a shared commitment to climate action.
While Montpellier residents benefit from complimentary public transport, visitors and tourists will continue to pay a fare of 1.60 euros ($1.70) per trip. This approach ensures that the local residents gain the maximum advantages of the free transport initiative, while still contributing to public transportation costs for non-residents.
Residents and observers have shown enthusiasm for the initiative, acknowledging its potential to reduce individual car usage. Prior to the introduction of free public transport, only 86,000 people held paid subscriptions for Montpellier’s transportation services. However, this figure has tripled to 260,000 subscribers in the days leading up to the official launch of the free pass, available in card or smartphone app form.
Montpellier’s free transport initiative is backed by a new transport tax imposed on companies with more than 11 employees. The revenue generated from this tax is expected to contribute to funding the city’s commitment to providing complimentary public transport for residents. Notably, city residents accounted for 90% of the 39 million euros generated from public transport ticket sales last year.
Montpellier’s decision to make public transport free for its residents aligns with a broader European trend aimed at promoting sustainable urban mobility and addressing environmental concerns. As the city embraces this initiative, it will be closely watched for its impact on reducing individual car usage, enhancing public transportation accessibility, and serving as an inspiration for other European cities contemplating similar measures.
