Trolleybus parade in Chisinau
https://www.ipn.md/en/trolleybus-parade-in-chisinau-7967_993348.html
All the 102 trolleybuses bought from Belarus have arrived in Chisinau and will run on the assigned routes. On Saturday, October 15, the last 6 trolleybuses were brought to Chisinau. On this occasion, a trolleybus parade was organized in the center of the city, Info-Prim Neo reports.
“This is an idea, a dream come true. Three years ago it was only a word, a sentence about how to get new trolleybuses for the people. These words were said during a work meeting at the City Hall. In the following months, we started direct negotiations with donors. After three years and a half, we can see real results. An European project will improve public transport in Chisinau, will increase the safety, comfort and the good mood of passengers”, stated Mayor Dorin Chirtoaca of Chisinau.
According to Ambassador Dirk Schuebel, head of the EU Delegation in Moldova, the 102 trolleybuses are the example of a partnership between Moldova, Belarus and the EU, implemented to the benefit of the inhabitants of Chisinau.
“I'm sure these trolleybuses will bring a piece of Belarus in Moldova. We witnessed a common project. It's an example of efficient work and a proof of what we can do together. I'm confident the first electric bus assembled in Chisinau, as part of the partnership signed this week, will be an example for the neighboring countries”, said Deputy Mayor of Minsk Igor Karpenco.
The Chisinau City Hall bought the 102 trolleybuses from the Belkomunmash factory in Minsk as part of a project to modernize public transport. The new electric buses have lower energy consumption, an electronic announcement system, three double doors and a low floor to allow access to people in wheelchairs.
The cost of the project is €13.7 million, 10 million of which come from a loan offered by EBRD and EIB at an interest rate of 5%. Another 3 million are a EU grant offered within the Neighboring Policy Program.
Under an agreement between the Chisinau City Hall and the Minsk factory, trolleybuses will be assembled in Chisinau from the spring of 2012.
