A temporary bus service is being launched between Valga and Tartu to mitigate disruptions caused by changes to train schedules following the introduction of a direct train line from Tartu to Riga.
Service Adjustments and Delays
The Ministry of Regional Affairs and Agriculture, in collaboration with Valga County leaders, agreed to the trial bus service on Friday. The bus will depart Valga in the morning, arriving in Tartu at 8:45 a.m., and will stop at locations previously served by the train. This service will operate from March 1 to June 10.
These adjustments come after a morning train from Riga experienced a five-minute delay upon arriving at Valga station on Friday. One morning train from Valga to Tartu was delayed by two hours, causing inconvenience for passengers, according to Valga County officials.
Passenger Numbers and Future Improvements
Even before the schedule changes, passenger numbers on the Valga-Tartu route were relatively low. In November, fewer than 30 people boarded trains at Valga station, with an average of 37 arriving in Tartu. Elron’s new direct train between Tartu and Riga, which has been operating for a month, has seen an average of under 30 passengers per trip, though ticket sales in Latvia have only recently begun.
Looking ahead, the diesel train schedule between Valga and Tartu is expected to be adapted when Elron’s new electric trains become operational in a year. Mayor of Valga, Mart Kase, anticipates seven connections instead of five by 2027, including a return train arriving in Tartu at 9 a.m. However, railway repairs this summer are likely to cause disruptions to both the Valga and Riga connections from Tartu.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is being done to address the train delays?
A trial bus service will operate between Valga and Tartu from March 1 to June 10 to compensate for the reduced train service.
How many passengers have been using the Tartu-Riga train?
The direct train between Tartu and Riga has averaged under 30 passengers per trip in its first month of operation.
What improvements are planned for the Valga-Tartu train line?
The diesel train schedule between Valga and Tartu is expected to be adapted when Elron’s new electric trains are in operation in a year, potentially increasing connections from five to seven.
Will these transportation adjustments ultimately improve connectivity for residents of Valga and surrounding areas remains to be seen.
