Commuters express frustration over planned fare hikes at Pasila train station in Helsinki

There is growing frustration among commuters at the Pasila train station in Helsinki regarding the planned fare hikes for public transportation in the region. Sonja Helenius, who was on her way to Vantaa, expressed her dissatisfaction with the increases, stating, “It’s outrageous, especially when costs are rising everywhere else.”

Helsinki Regional Transport Authority (HSL) is set to increase ticket prices by an average of eight percent next year. Helenius noted that the fare hike will tighten her budget, adding, “I have to get to work, so I’ll have to save money elsewhere.”

Faisa Abdi, who uses the bus and metro daily, criticized the fare increase. She and a colleague are even considering getting driver’s licenses, suspecting that driving might be more economical.

Commuter Djahou Sabin Oke, who travels from Helsinki to Vantaa, appreciates the cleanliness of the trains and is relatively unconcerned about the fare increase. In contrast, Eino Heiskanen, passing through the station, commented that if ticket prices become too steep, people might think twice about purchasing them, potentially leading to more fare evasion.

Rosa Koivula, a mother using a stroller, shared her worries about how these fare increases would impact families. “Fortunately, I can travel for free with my child, or else we might miss out on activities,” she said.

Donna Roberts, who has lived in Finland for over twenty years, mentioned that rising fares might push people to rely more on personal vehicles. Lastly, Jaana Ristiluoma, a resident of Suomenlinna, expressed her frustration, pointing out that living on an island already limits transportation options, emphasizing the need for affordable and accessible public transit.

HSL’s fare adjustments will see ticket prices rise as follows for the next two years, affecting various types of passes.