Cities across the world are embarking on ambitious projects to upgrade and expand their public transport facilities. Public transport systems are an integral part of urban life, supporting cleaner air, reducing traffic congestion and saving costs.
The economic benefits are felt not just by companies, but also by ordinary people. A study conducted in Europe found that people who use public transport spend on average 90% less annually compared to those who own a private vehicle. These savings come from fuel, maintenance, insurance, and parking fees.
Thus, public transport not only offers a more affordable transportation option but also increases individuals' economic freedom. So it is no wonder that Paris has embarked on a major transport infrastructure project that aims to make travel around the capital and beyond easier for both locals and tourists.
The French government is pouring €3.8 billion (£3.3 billion) into expanding the capital's metro network as part of its Grand Paris Express scheme. The project will see 200 kilometres of new track laid down, as well as the construction of a whopping 68 new stations.
It involves extending an existing metro line (metro 14) and building 4 new ones in the inner and outer suburbs (metros 15, 16, 17 and 18).
The decision to go ahead with the plan came after a consultation process, involving 22,000 people. Work began on its construction in 2016, with new sections coming online already in 2024.
The project is expected to be completed by 2030. Currently under construction is line 18 that will link Paris-Orly airport to Versailles.
Discussions are already underway to extend the line beyond Versailles to Nanterre, which will double the number of daily travellers on it to over 200,000.
The expanded metro lines will make it easier for visitors to explore lesser-known destinations or travel seamlessly between iconic landmarks and emerging districts.
Paris is a magnet for tourists, attracting some 50 million per year - all of whom are no doubt eager to discover why France's capital is often called the "city of romance".
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