Petition for train stops: Save environmentally friendly mobility in the Pinzgau!

Petition for train stops: Save environmentally friendly mobility in the Pinzgau!

Andreas Haitzer, the SPÖ mayor of Schwarzach in the Pongau and at the same time National Councilor, throws a shadow on the future mobility landscape in the region. On September 6, he brought in a petition in parliament that demands the preservation of Gerling, Eschenau and Leogang Steinberge. These stops are of great importance not only for the basic traffic technology supply of residents without a car, they also play a key role for a car -free tourism offer, which is more in demand today than ever. Haitzer describes the planned closure as a step backwards for the quality of life and a threat to environmental policy progress in Pinzgau. Loud Sn.at If the petition is to be discussed on the Petitions Committee on October 23, while an examination by the Transport Committee is due in the coming spring.

Against this background, the question of the profitability of the stops is omnipresent. Haitzer points out that this depends largely on co -financing by the country or the municipalities. The argument of the ÖBB that a reorganization of the timetables could benefit many passengers and that there will be comparable bus traffic is critically questioned by local politicians. According to Haitzer, the use of micro-ÖV solutions could also be part of the plan to close the gaps in local transport.

The role of tourism

The central location of Austria makes the country an important hub for vacationers. Loud bmwet.gv.at The success of tourism destinations depends heavily on accessibility. Around 75 % of the guests currently use the car, while only 7 % by train and 6 % travel by bus. These figures illustrate how important it is to improve tourist mobility and at the same time to make more environmentally friendly.

Public grants for the Soifen-Leogang shuttle have already been exhausted, which underlines the need for new solutions. An initiative for the digital loan of bicycles could be an answer here. With the new offer of the ÖBB, visitors can: borrow bicycles directly at the destination, which are fully booked and returned via the Wegfinder app. oebb.at shows that bicycles are ready with and without electrical support and the cooperation with local providers and tourism associations are easily and versatile.

A look into the future

In view of the demographic change and the increase in sharing models, awareness of environmentally friendly mobility solutions is growing. It not only needs innovative approaches, but also a strong commitment of all those responsible - from tourism to traffic to environmental policy. The need for action is clear: a simple and socially just access to mobility is essential to ensure the tourist attractiveness of the region. This requires a seamless travel chain from door to door to offer vacationers: inside and locals the best possible experience.

The upcoming petition negotiations and the ongoing discussions about the closure of the railway stops are therefore not only for a local discussion, but as part of a major challenge that many Austrian regions have to face. Haitzer's concern could be the first step towards more sustainable and integrated mobility. Meanwhile, the petition can be online at parlament.gv.at be signed.