Photo: epravda
The free railway travel program “UZ-3000” is set to launch on December 1 and will run for four months, Prime Minister Yuliia Svyrydenko announced during a government Q&A session in parliament.
“It’s important to understand that the real cost of passenger transportation is higher than the ticket price. Previously, this imbalance was covered by revenue from cargo transportation,” Svyrydenko explained.
She noted that due to the war, freight traffic volumes have dropped significantly, and the income that once helped balance passenger fares is no longer sufficient.
“To support the railway in these difficult times, around ₴13 billion were allocated this year from the reserve and state budgets. Next year, we plan to allocate at least ₴15 billion, while Ukrzaliznytsia is also seeking additional resources through cost savings and operational optimization,” she added.
UZ-3000 Program
According to the Prime Minister, “UZ-3000” is not funded by the ₴13 billion already allocated. Instead, it’s a special initiative available to all Ukrainian citizens.
“The relevant ministry is currently finalizing and detailing the program. It is scheduled to launch on December 1 and will operate for four months — during the period of lower demand for Ukrzaliznytsia services,” Svyrydenko said.
Background
Earlier, President Volodymyr Zelenskyy instructed the government to prepare a ‘Winter Support Package’ for Ukrainians. One of its key elements is the “UZ-3000” initiative, which will allow citizens to travel up to 3,000 kilometers by Ukrzaliznytsia trains free of charge.
