New trains to delay installation of bike storage systems for several months
In an effort to accommodate the growing number of cyclists, Latvia's passenger rail services, Pasažieru vilciens, has announced plans to install bicycle racks in their trains. This initiative, originally predicted to cost over a million euros, has seen a significant reduction in cost, now estimated at around 890,000 euros.
During the past summer tourist season, few cyclists were observed on trains between Riga, Jurmala, and Saulkrasti, highlighting the need for such an upgrade. In the absence of bike racks, cyclists have been placing their bicycles in areas reserved for people in wheelchairs and parents with prams, causing inconvenience to these groups.
To address this issue, six seats will be dismantled in the first and last carriage of each train, and folding seats will be installed in their place. The new bike racks will be able to hold 12 bicycles, both vertically and horizontally, providing ample space for cyclists.
The project cost will be primarily covered by the European Union, with 15% coming from the state budget. A contract with a manufacturer has been concluded, and all materials have been ordered. The first trains equipped with bike racks are expected to start running in January.
However, the coordination of contracts and procurement took longer than predicted. The company installing the bicycle parking spaces in the new Škoda trains is not mentioned in the provided search results. The first three electric trains will be equipped by the manufacturer, while the rest will be equipped by the company's technical staff.
The plan is to install bike racks in all 32 new electric trains by May of next year. This move is expected to alleviate the issue of unsecured bicycles sometimes observed on moving trains, as there is no means of securing them without bike racks.
The introduction of bike racks in trains has been welcomed by many, especially those who face difficulties due to the lack of space. A woman with an infant in a stroller at Riga Central Station stated that there is not enough space on the electric train for cyclists, new mothers with strollers, and people with special needs during the summer.
In the mornings and evenings, when there are more passengers, bicycles tend to be left at the door, creating an obstacle for passengers. With the installation of bike racks, this issue is expected to be resolved, making travel more comfortable and convenient for all.
