Public transport was crucial to the post war development of capital cities in Socialist central and eastern Europe. Extensive bus, trolley bus, tram and metro networks providing frequent, cheap services were admired widely in the West. Sadly, almost all of these great systems are now falling apart. In cities such as Warsaw, Moscow and Bucharest preoccupation with new highway and metro construction and grandiose capital projects led to a decade of neglect of existing surface public transport. This paper draws on WS Atkins' current experience, particularly in Warsaw and Moscow and makes reference to similar work elsewhere. It illustrates operational, financial and institutional barriers to restructuring and provides pointers to practical solutions including changes in management thinking, infrastructure and vehicle renewal and overhaul, traffic management measures, and institutional development. It also comments on the role of the funding agencies in finance, technical assistance and policy promotion. (A)
Abstract