Carpool in Karlshagen: Progress or security risk?

Carpool in Karlshagen: Progress or security risk?

Karlshagen, Deutschland - Usedom, the pearl of the Baltic Sea, attracts with nature, white beaches and those seeking relaxation from near and far. But what to do if public transport connections on the holiday island are treated rather neglected? An interesting approach was implemented in Karlshagen: the ride. This recently introduced concept aims to improve mobility on site, especially outside the season and on less frequented routes. As moin.de has been on the main road in Karlshagen, exactly next to the bus stop since April "Fire Brigade".

The bank is simple, but has an inviting. Users can sit on the blue side if they want to go to Zinnowitz or choose the white side when it comes to Volgast. The initiative came from Stefan Bethke, the deputy mayor, who was inspired on a motorcycle tour. He had the idea of ​​creating a contact point for carpooling to enable people without a car more flexible mobility. The project was supported by the tourist own company of the island and a sponsor that financed the necessary sign.

public transport connection on the island

The discussion about the ride is lively and the social networks glow before opinions. Some are enthusiastic about the new offer, while others primarily express concerns. Women in particular are skeptical about the idea of ​​being taken away by strangers. Protection by an occupant accident insurance gives a certain feeling of security, but the concerns are not entirely unfounded. Especially in an environment where public transport is often not available, it is understandable that there is skepticism.

The ride could not only be a simple solution to the mobility problem, but it could also serve as a model in other regions. There are already similar concepts, such as in Nienhagen, where a colorful take-away banks helps people get to the S-Bahn in Ehlershausen, 10 km away. There, too, one has tried to promote the use of the ride by signs and an inviting design, which shows that such solutions are asked wherever public transport is restricted, such as the Süddeutsche Zeitung holds.

The way to acceptance

The ride has the potential to increase the mobility of rural regions and yet there are skeptical voices. Other initiatives in Germany also show that it often has accepted acceptance. Similar banks were installed in many small communities, but the use often remained low. Fears of uncertain waiting times or accidents scare many people from such offers as the Environmental Federal Office . Especially in rural areas, many people face the idea of ​​driving with mixed feelings.

If, however, it succeeds in building trust and creating incentives through targeted information, the ride can certainly be a success. Be it through regular advertising or advantages that are offered to users, such as vouchers that can be used once. It remains to be seen whether the Karlshagen initiative can promote acceptance and bring many to experience the variety of mobility.