KarunaNews Story

Montpellier's free public transport initiative, launched in December 2023, has led to a 20% increase in journeys. In the first three months of 2024, public transport usage rose by 23.7% compared to the same period in 2019. The city has observed increased usage during off-peak hours, indicating that residents are using public transport more for leisure and socializing. Accurate figures will be available in December 2024 when the scheme completes its first year. Montpellier is the largest French metropolis to offer free public transport for all residents across its 31 municipalities. The scheme aims to reduce emissions, cut pollution, and improve accessibility. It follows earlier phases that made transport free on weekends and for under-18s and over-65s, which also saw increased usage.