A serious debate has erupted in Kyiv regarding the cost of public transport fares. The city administration has considered a proposal from trade unions for a phased fare increase, although a final decision on this matter has not yet been made. The situation requires detailed analysis, as any changes in pricing policy directly affect the capital's budget and the lives of thousands of residents.
Trade Union Proposal: Step by Step
The Department of Economy and Investments of the Kyiv City State Administration (Kyiv City Council) confirmed receipt of a proposal from trade union representatives. The initiative involves a gradual, phased increase in fare costs. According to the plan, the fare should first rise to 20 hryvnias, and six months later — to 30 hryvnias.
However, as noted by the department, implementing such an idea requires careful study. Any fare changes entail a change in the financial burden on the city budget. Funds are needed to compensate for the difference between the actual expenses of transport enterprises and their revenue from passenger transport.
Balance Between Economy and Accessibility
Currently, the authorities are studying the possibility of implementing the trade union proposal. Its impact on the city budget and the consequences for municipal transport enterprises are being evaluated. The main goal is to ensure stable and uninterrupted operation of public transport.
At the moment, a final decision on the introduction of new fares has not yet been made. Kyiv authorities continue to analyze incoming proposals to guarantee the operation of the metro, buses, trolleybuses, and trams.
Public Discussion and Alternative Projects
The department also noted that the Kyiv City Council's project on fare increases has already undergone public discussion. Received appeals and proposals are being processed; responses to the raised issues are currently being prepared. A report on the results of the public discussion is also being prepared.
Recall that on May 18, the Kyiv City Council presented its project for increasing urban transport fares. It provides for an increase in the cost of a single ticket to 30 hryvnias, a monthly pass — to 1,088 hryvnias, and an unlimited monthly pass — to 4,875 hryvnias. If the authorities approve the project in its current form, the new prices will come into force as early as July 15.
Economic Reality and Carrier Reaction
The Kyiv City Council explains that the economically justified fare for 2026 should be 64.60 hryvnias per metro ride and 44.14 hryvnias — for ground transport. Currently, tickets cost 8 hryvnias, which is significantly lower than the actual cost of transport.
In comments to RBC-Ukraine, private carriers assured that the price increase of Kyiv's municipal transport would not directly affect fares in marshrutkas (minibuses) or on intercity routes. At the same time, the State Service of Ukraine on Food Safety and Consumer Protection (USFSCP) plans to inspect intercity carriers that previously raised fares by more than 50%.
Public Reaction: Petition Against Price Hikes
Immediately after the announcement of the project to raise fares in the capital, Kyiv residents created a petition against the fare increase. In less than a day, it gathered more than 6,000 signatures. City authorities reviewed the appeal but did not support it, citing the need to ensure the operation of transport.
Thus, the question of fare increases remains open. Authorities continue to analyze proposals, trying to find a balance between economic expediency and the accessibility of public transport for Kyiv residents.