The announced increase in the cost of public transport in the capital has caused a wave of indignation among the public. A well-known activist and veteran of the Russian-Ukrainian war, Oleg Simoroz, sharply criticized the initiative of the city authorities, calling it an "anti-people decision."
He is convinced that the financial burden in difficult times should not be shifted to the shoulders of ordinary passengers, especially against the backdrop of Kyiv's billion-dollar budget.
A budget of 100 billion and opportunity costs
Oleh Simoroz emphasized that the capital has the second largest budget in Ukraine after the state budget. With proper allocation of funds, the city is able not only to maintain current tariffs, but even to introduce free travel for the period of martial law. This, according to the activist, would help relieve traffic jams on Kyiv streets and significantly improve logistics.
"With a budget of UAH 100 billion, we should not move tiles and build artificial islands on Obolon, but support ordinary people in difficult times," said Simoroz.
He also added that in most European cities, public transport functions as social service, and not a business project to fill the treasury. Instead, the authorities should seek additional revenues through:
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effective monetization of advertising on transport;
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transparent lease of communal land;
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commercial privileges for business.
Criticism of Klitschko's transport policy
Separately, the veteran went through the capital's long-standing infrastructure problems and accused the team of incumbent mayor Vitali Klitschko of lobbying the interests of private carriers.
"During his 12 years as mayor, Kyiv has not fully implemented a single normal infrastructure project," the activist emphasized.
According to Symoroz, against the backdrop of a falling standard of living and a protracted war, the tariff at the level 8 UAH should remain unchanged, and municipal transport needs systemic reform, not just an increase in price.
