The Government of the Russian Federation has approved a substantial investment plan to advance urban electric transport across ten regions. A total of 86.5 billion rubles will be allocated to accelerate the modernization of public mobility, a decision formalized in a decree signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin and published on the government portal. This funding marks a significant step in upgrading city-level transport networks and expanding clean, electric public transit options for residents in multiple regions.
Under the terms of co-financing, federal resources will be directed toward the Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk and Perm regions, along with Volgograd, Kursk, Lipetsk, Nizhny Novgorod, Rostov, Saratov, and Yaroslavl. The government highlighted that these areas have substantial needs for transport infrastructure renewal. The investment aims to strengthen the reliability, efficiency, and comfort of urban travel by integrating electric transport solutions into everyday commuting.
The program will fund a broad array of improvements. A key component is the reconstruction of a 620-kilometer tram corridor and the transformation of neighboring urban spaces to suit modern electric transit. In addition, the plan calls for the procurement of 646 new trams, 284 electric buses, and 124 charging stations to support a growing electric fleet and reduce dependence on fossil fuels in city centers.
Officials emphasize that these efforts are part of the broader national project focused on Safe Quality Roads and the federal initiative dedicated to the Development of Public Transport. The alignment of these programs signals a coordinated, long-term strategy to enhance urban mobility, reduce travel times, and improve air quality for residents across the participating regions.
Beyond the immediate vehicle and infrastructure upgrades, the decree signals a commitment to broader urban planning improvements. The reconstruction of tram corridors is intended to not only expand capacity but also to modernize the surrounding streetscape, ensuring safer, more accessible travel for pedestrians and cyclists. By upgrading charging and maintenance facilities, the plan also anticipates smoother operation of electric fleets, lowering operational costs and downtime for public transit agencies.
Regional authorities will oversee the implementation, with federal oversight to ensure funds are used transparently and efficiently. This approach aims to accelerate the transition to electric public transport while creating local jobs in manufacturing, maintenance, and infrastructure construction. The emphasis on cities with dense populations and growing demand for reliable mass transit underlines the government’s focus on delivering practical, tangible improvements for everyday commuters.
While the scope is broad, the program remains adaptable to regional circumstances. Local authorities will have the flexibility to tailor route expansions, fleet composition, and charging networks to reflect community needs, traffic patterns, and topographical challenges. The shared objective across all ten regions is a cleaner, more efficient public transport system that can absorb future growth and contribute to a healthier urban environment.
Overall, this substantial investment underscores a strategic push to modernize urban mobility through electric technology. By upgrading tram lines, expanding electric buses, and deploying robust charging infrastructure, the program seeks to deliver reliable service, reduce emissions, and enhance the quality of life in Russian cities. The coordinated effort between federal funds and regional administration signals a proactive approach to transforming urban transport networks in the coming years, aligning with broader goals of sustainable development and improved public infrastructure.
In summary, the decree lays out a clear roadmap for upgrading urban electric transport across ten key regions, with a balanced mix of rail and road electrification, modern fleets, and enhanced charging capabilities. The outcome aims to be more efficient, environmentally friendly, and better suited to the needs of modern city life, reflecting a long-term vision for public transport in Russia.