Written by Ditmar Hasanaj & edited by Nick Walters
HELSINKI LEFT opposes Helsinki City’s Board’s decision to pass the proposal put forward by the board of Helsinki Region Transport (HSL) to the Ministry of Transport & Communications to increase the ticket inspection fee on public transport in the capital region from €80 to €100.
If implemented, the increased inspection fee will impose a significant burden on workers, who already face significant challenges in these times of inflation and austerity.
Anni Sinnemäki’s (The Greens) proposal to increase the inspection fee was approved by Helsinki City’s Board, with 11 voting in favour, and 4 against, at its meeting on 6th November. The Left Alliance and the Social Democratic Party were the only parties objecting to the statement.
An essential service, not a luxury
Addressing the climate crisis and enduring economic uncertainty requires the fundamental principle that public transport should not be a luxury, but an essential service, affordable and available to all. Our trains, metro, trams, and buses serve as a lifeline, enabling people to reach their workplaces, schools, healthcare, social services, and other vital necessities.
Instead of raising prices, Helsinki City’s main goal should be to improve the accessibility and attractiveness of public transport. HSL’s own data demonstrate a considerable decline in the number of public transport users, especially after the single ticket price was raised from €2.80 to €3.30. While HSL has responded to passenger feedback by partially rolling back the price hike to €2.95, the cost of a single ticket remains high for many workers.
The high ticket prices and 25% increase to the inspection fee will disproportionately affect individuals with lower incomes. In particular, immigrants living in urban areas heavily rely on public transport and many have low-wage jobs. At a time when the government is reducing support, and when rising inflation and housing costs are making life more challenging for most of the capital region’s inhabitants, every penny counts.
For these compelling reasons, HELSINKI LEFT calls on Helsinki City Council and HSL’s board to reconsider their decisions and take steps to ensure that public transport becomes affordable for everyone.