The author outlines developments that have occurred in Eastern Europe and suggests that transport policy will play a major role in the further economic development of these countries. Graphs and statistics showing trends in population growth, population movement, employment, freight transport, car ownership and modal split in Eastern Europe are discussed and the implications for transport systems considered. Changes in traffic flows are foreseen and areas of congestion predicted. Suggestions are made for the use of traffic management techniques to control traffic flows. Emphasis is placed on the conflict that will arise between the need to cater for the expected large increases in traffic and the protection of the environment. The author concludes that the development of transport policies in Eastern European countries can now only be carried out by analogy with Western market economy structures. Ownership of private transport is on the increase and the upgrading of infrastructure will be particularly important. Eastern Europe has a substantial potential but its realisation will depend on an efficient transport system.
Abstract