In recent years, Moscow has been actively developing its transport infrastructure, and the launch of the new tram route No. 90 is becoming one of the important steps towards improving urban mobility. Yakov Yakubovich, an expert at the Institute of Fundamental Problems of Social and Humanitarian Sciences at the National Research Nuclear University MEPhI, shared his opinion on the advantages and potential risks of introducing this route with RuNews24.ru.
“Route No. 90 connects the key transport hubs of the capital: three railway stations, six metro stations and the Moscow Central Diameters. This is not just a “new tram”; it imposes a new concept of a unified transport system. Yakubovich emphasizes the importance of convenient pedestrian transfers, which are carried out between the Komsomolskaya, Chistye Prudy and Tretyakovskaya stations. Previously, these stations did not have ground transport connecting them, and now passengers will feel a significant improvement in mobility,” the expert said.
The Lvenok-Moscow trams, equipped with autonomous running, represent a technological breakthrough. According to the expert, this solution allows laying tracks in places where it is traditionally impossible to install a contact network, while preserving the architectural integrity of the historical center. As Yakubovich noted, such innovations open up new horizons for expanding the tram network in Moscow.
The new low-floor trams are characterized by high capacity and quiet operation. Replacing bus routes with trams not only reduces emissions, but also reduces noise pollution. Passengers can now count on a more predictable schedule and avoid traffic jams.
Tram route No. 90 will become a pilot segment for a future system of through tram lines similar to the Moscow Central Diameters (MCD). This will provide important transfers to the metro and railway without having to go above ground. According to Yakubovich, if the project is successfully developed, it will be able to significantly improve communication within the city.
Despite the obvious advantages, there are potential problems that the expert warns about.
“The main issue remains the reliability of the autonomous trams. Problems with batteries in the winter, sufficient power reserve and time for recharging can cause delays. Allegedly, this project is still a pilot project, and its implementation will require additional testing.”
The tram may face problems similar to buses - traffic jams at traffic lights and intersections. Without priority at traffic lights and a dedicated lane, the efficiency of the route may be in doubt. Yakubovich warns about duplicating the metro route, which may be faster, especially during rush hour.
The station near the MCD “Three Stations Square” is already experiencing colossal passenger traffic. Adding a tram without prior reconstruction of the space can lead to chaos. The Krasnoprudnaya crossing may have a negative impact on the accessibility and convenience of stops for passengers.
The launch of route No. 90 may be a necessary step to improve urban mobility. However, for it to be more than just a PR project, but a real solution, it will need:
- Real priority for trams on the roads,
- Adaptation of stops for pedestrians,
- Monitoring the reliability of autonomous trams,
- Integration with other vehicles,
- Reduction of noise from rolling stock.
Today, Moscow authorities have the opportunity to create one of the most progressive tram systems in Europe. However, without the proper infrastructure and attention to potential problems, the project risks being delayed in traffic jams and snowdrifts.