Lithuanian Train Passenger Faces Extra Fee for Paying in Cash, Sparks Debate Over Accessibility
A commuter in lithuania is raising concerns about a 2-euro fee applied to train tickets purchased with cash, arguing the charge disproportionately impacts those without easy access to digital payment methods. The issue highlights a growing tension between modernizing payment infrastructure and ensuring equitable access to public transportation.
Karolis, a resident of Vievi, a town 40 kilometers from Vilnius, recently shared his experience with Delfi, detailing how the convenience of frequent train service between his home and workplace is undermined by the added cost of paying in cash. “The passenger is punished,” he stated, explaining that he frequently enough lacks the immediate ability to transfer funds to a card and relies on onboard ticket purchases.
The core of the issue lies in a 2-euro surcharge levied on all tickets bought directly on the train, regardless of the payment method. While LTG Link, a member of the Lietuvos geležinkėlių group, maintains this is a standard “service charge” intended to incentivize advance purchases through online platforms, mobile apps, ticket machines, or “Perlas” terminals, karolis argues it’s unfair when alternative options are limited.
“It might be understandable if the passenger had the opportunity to purchase a ticket in advance or choose another payment method,” Karolis explained. “However, when the infrastructure of a state-run company does not allow this, the situation becomes absurd – the passenger is punished for not having the technical ability to pay in cash.”
Karolis,who works in the flower trade and frequently receives cash payments from customers,presented a receipt showing a student-discounted ticket priced at 4.50 euros, increased to 4.25 euros after the 2-euro fee was applied. He believes the cumulative effect of this charge generates significant revenue and prompted him to file a formal complaint with Lietuvos geležinkelias.
The problem,he asserts,extends beyond Vievi. “In many smaller stations in Lithuania, cash registers have long been abolished. Ticket machines often do not work or only accept cards,” he said, adding that the practice clashes with principles of social justice and European Union policy.
Currently, LTG Link lists 23 railway stations – including Vilnius, Kaunas, and Klaipėda – equipped with ticket machines that accept only bank cards. While the company points to an interactive map showcasing five “Perlo” terminals in Vievi offering cash payment options,these are not located within the railway station itself,requiring an 8-minute walk to reach the nearest one. A similar situation exists at the Vilnius railway station.Link to Perlo terminal map here.
Despite the concerns, LTG Link maintains the fee is transparently applied and aims to promote pre-purchased tickets. According to a company spokesperson, up to 10% of passengers still opt to pay in cash, with the vast majority utilizing online or card-based payment methods.
The Bank of Lithuania weighed in on the matter, stating in a comment that the 2-euro charge is considered a service fee and does not constitute a violation of legal acts.The institution suggested directing pricing inquiries to Lietuvos Geležinkelias.
The situation raises broader questions about the accessibility of public services in a rapidly digitalizing world. While encouraging digital payments can streamline operations and reduce costs, poli
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