The first batch of buses from France was delivered to the communities of the Kyiv region to strengthen local transport and support the population. Some vehicles have already entered the routes, while others have been modified for mobile assistance points. This was reported by Mykola Kalashnyk, the head of Kyiv OVA.
Four buses were delivered to the Boyarska community, three of which will operate on routes, and one will become a so-called 'bus of resilience'. In total, the Île-de-France region will send 260 units of transport to Kyiv region, of which the first 30 have already arrived.
The distribution of buses is taking place among communities that have municipal carriers and a need to strengthen the transport network. The new buses have already been received by:
Bila Tserkva community
Vasylkiv community
Boyarska community.
Within the communities, this transport will operate free of charge for residents. This practice is already in place, particularly in Bila Tserkva.
Buses from France for Kyiv region: how free transport works
New buses are used for internal routes to improve accessibility to transportation in communities. Free rides allow expanding the mobility of residents, especially during wartime.
Special mobile buses have been given particular attention. Some of the transport has been converted into support points for the population that can quickly deploy in case of emergencies.
Buses of resilience in Kyiv region: what they can do
Ten buses from the batch have been converted into mobile assistance hubs. They are equipped with everything necessary to support people during crisis situations:
autonomous power supply
internet access
heating systems
possibility to charge devices
hot drinks and food.
The equipping of these buses is handled by partners, including the VIDI company. Such mobile solutions complement the community's response system and allow for quick assistance to people on the ground.
The transportation transfer is a result of cooperation with the French region of Île-de-France. Kyiv region is receiving assistance in stages, which allows gradually strengthening local transport infrastructure and increasing the resilience of communities during wartime.
As a reminder, starting January 20, on a number of suburban routes in Kyiv region the fare to the capital increased. The cost of trips from Boyarka and Vysheve increased the most.