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Congestion Charges Begin In Stockholm, Met With Disfavor

Posted by: Irvin Dawid
Thanks to: MTC-ABAG Library, Oakland, CA
11 January 2006 - 10:00am

Europe's second congestion pricing program has been put into effect. Unlike London's (a plan promoted by mayor-to-be Ken Livingston), the Stockholm program was initiated by the city's Green Party, though with the support of Social Democrats.

"The charge will be a maximum 60 crowns ($7.50) a day, slightly less than London, the only other European capital with similar fees, which charges 8 pounds ($14) a day". In September 2006, Stockholmers will vote to decide whether to make the program permanent.

"Most Swedes take pride in their country's environmentalist credentials, but this time politicians may be out of touch with public opinion in their efforts to impose a tax on traffic."

The charge is part of a political deal to secure the support of the Green Party, the smallest group represented in parliament, for Prime Minister Goran Persson's Social Democrat minority government.

"A recent opinion poll showed that nearly 60 percent of those questioned opposed the charge while about 30 percent were in favor".

Full Story: Stockholm residents choke on new congestion charge
Source: Reuters (on-line), January 5, 2006
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