Young people and the elderly will soon be able to travel for free across the Lisbon transport network if plans drawn up by authorities, led by City Mayor Carlos Moedas, are granted final approval.
The scheme, which has reportedly been given the initial nod by the city’s executive, would apply to all journeys made with Carris, the company that operates Lisbon’s buses, trams, and funiculars. However, officials are hoping to extend it to all operators under the Transportes Metropolitanos de Lisboa (TML) umbrella, including metros and trains.
Free travel passes will be available to all city residents aged under 18, as well as students up to the age of 23, and people over 65. The total cost of the scheme, described as a key electoral commitment of the PSD-led governing coalition, is projected to be €12 million if extended to the full TML network.
Commenting on the rollout, Deputy Mayor Filipe Anacoreta Correia said: “We have everything in place to allow us to roll out [the scheme] this year”, adding: “the executive is committed to rapid implementation”.
Politicians are also hoping to progress proposals to offer a 50% parking discount to city residents.
Source: Jornal de Negocios / RTP
