For decades now, parents with young kids in prams have been able to use Helsinki's public transport system free-of-charge, but in an aim to raise ticket revenues, the city's Regional Transport Authority (HSL) has proposed to end the practice.
Like many other sectors affected by the coronavirus crisis, the city's public transportation system has struggled with a declining number of customers and dwindling revenue.
HSL's customer relations and sales director, Mari Flink, said the organisation has asked municipalities it serves about the possibility of charging passengers travelling with prams and strollers in an effort to increase ticket sales.
"It is one of the tariff change suggestions which we've asked municipalities for their views on. We are faced with a huge economic crisis. We're wondering whether we need to raise ticket prices or whether we're prepared to increase the share which municipalities pay. One can also save money within groups who receive discounts," Flink explained.
The transport authority has estimated that charging pram pushers to ride on the city's buses, trains, trams and ferries could potentially increase its annual revenue by 4.5 million euros.
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HSL serves the greater Helsinki region, which also includes the neighbouring cities of Vantaa and Espoo.
The chair of Espoo City Board's group section, Maria Guzenina (SDP), was not in favour of the proposal.
"We've had challenges in terms of providing sufficient services in any case, due to the corona crisis. It also feels a little ludicrous that we would now harass people travelling with prams," Guzenina said.
However, some changes are likely in store, as it is estimated that HSL will lose up to 120 million euros in ticket revenue this year due to the crisis.