The government expands free trains by 250 thousand seats per month: who can travel.

According to ТСН: In Ukraine, the program of free railway travel "3000 km across Ukraine" is actively being implemented as part of the president's initiative "Winter support." Currently, passengers have already booked 40 thousand tickets.

Popular routes and priorities

Deputy Prime Minister Oleksiy Kuleba reported that the program focuses on connecting with frontline communities and operates during off-peak periods. The highest demand is observed on the following routes:

• Fastiv — Konotop;

• Odesa — Zaporizhzhia;

• Kyiv/Zhmerynka — Shostka;

• Zaporizhzhia — Lviv;

• Sumy — Rakhiv.

Oleksiy Kuleba noted that this project supports residents of areas near the front line and optimizes railway operations.

"The program is aimed at supporting people in communities located near the front line, and it also allows for a more even distribution of passenger flow and more efficient use of the railway's available resources," the minister noted.

Economy and program development

It should be noted that for the implementation of the initiative no additional funds from the state budget are involved. Ukrzaliznytsia covers expenses from internal resources during low-demand periods. The government's plans include expanding the program nationwide.

Oleksiy Kuleba emphasized that during off-peak periods, the carrier will be able to offer about 250 thousand seats per month.

"This creates conditions for travel for Ukrainians, for whom the key factor is an affordable price, and additionally reduces the burden on peak transportation," he added.

It is recalled that the president of Ukraine announced free travel for 3000 km for all citizens. However, experts and the public question the economic feasibility of this initiative during wartime.

Earlier, it was reported that a free ticket under the "3000 kilometers across Ukraine" program does not provide for bedding, tea, or coffee.

During the Christmas period, Ukraine's main carrier launches new trains and passenger cars.

Thus, the "3000 km across Ukraine" program provides a unique opportunity for free travel, especially for those living in frontline zones. This is an important step in supporting the population in wartime, although the economic feasibility of the initiative remains a topic of discussion. As the railway is ready for active passenger transportation, this could potentially improve the accessibility of transport services in the country.