The Lviv City Council has formally announced a significant increase in public transport fares, which will take effect on May 16. The city administration explains that the decision to raise prices is a necessary response to the sharp increase in fuel costs, which have nearly doubled from 48 UAH to over 90 UAH per liter over the past year.
The new fare structure is designed to promote the use of the “LeoCart” electronic ticketing system. The cost of a single ride paid in cash will now be 30 UAH. However, for those using a general LeoCart or the mobile application, the price is set at 23 UAH. Passengers paying via bank card or NFC-enabled devices will be charged 26 UAH. Student discounts remain in effect, with fares set at 11.5 UAH per trip for personalized student cards.
Additionally, the city has introduced new subscription plans to help regular commuters manage their expenses. A monthly pass for all types of public transport will cost 1150 UAH, while students can purchase a monthly subscription for 575 UAH. City officials reminded the public that enforcement remains a priority, with the fine for fare evasion currently set at 520 UAH.
The increase reflects broader economic challenges currently facing Ukrainian municipalities. Maintaining transport infrastructure during wartime involves balancing high operational costs with the need to keep essential services accessible for residents. As Lviv works to optimize its transit network, other cities are also grappling with similar pressures, reflecting the complex economic landscape of Ukraine today.
Authorities are urging residents to switch to digital payment methods to enjoy the lowest possible fares and to ensure a smoother transition to the updated system. By encouraging the use of the LeoCart system, the city aims to reduce delays and streamline boarding processes across its entire fleet of buses, trams, and trolleybuses. Despite the financial adjustment, the city remains committed to providing reliable service amidst the ongoing national resilience efforts.