For years the bus system in Rome has relied on the “honor” system. It was expected you would purchase a ticket and then board and validate your ticket. Now, Rome is thinking of bringing back “conductors,” missing since the 1960’s.
In a recent article published in
Il Messaggero, Alessandro Vannini, chairman of the Capitoline tourism, verified that there will be
a one year experiment on a few of the most popular, cross-city lines. This experiment will start in
late November. Paraphrasing Mr. Vannini, he said, “It’s a method to avoid some of the ticket abuses that exist, but also improve levels of safety and decorum on the buses, which are often frequented by vandals and pickpockets.”
The experiment will start with seven routes that cross the central areas of Rome. These bus lines are
#’s 46, 49, 64, 70, 81, 490, and 492. Others may be added later as the scope of the test is enlarged. Tram lines may also be included as the test broadens. These bus lines were selected because these are most populated by tourists (many headed to the Vatican) and by locals coming to downtown Rome.
The “cost” of having a conductor ON the buses will be offset by the expected increase in ticket revenues on these lines… Suffice to say, there is a belief that some folks are not paying! This return to the position of a conductor on the buses evolved from a recent survey taken to create better service, safety, and environments on the buses – and to increase revenues.
So don’t be surprised if you jump on a bus in Rome after November and you’re asked by a uniformed conductor to, “Show me your ticket!”
