Germany has launched a pilot scheme offering free public transport to all residents under 18 years of age across major cities like Berlin, Munich, and Hamburg. The initiative aims to reduce carbon emissions, encourage public transport use, and relieve financial pressure on families.
Transport Minister Volker Wissing announced that the plan will be evaluated for nationwide rollout after a year. Early data shows increased ridership among school students and reduced private car usage.
The move is being closely watched by urban planners in South Asia, including Delhi, Dhaka, and Kathmandu, as they look for low-cost, high-impact solutions for traffic congestion and youth mobility.