The Stephansplatz in Vienna will no longer be accessible for two months. The district and disability representatives have risen up, calling for a second lift. However, the Wiener Linien rules this out based on studies.
The Inner City District Council also recently unanimously supported the demands of representatives of disabled people and the Ombudsman: the only metro elevator to the surface of Stephansplatz cannot be closed for two months – from January 20 – without replacement. But that’s exactly what will happen.
Why doesn’t what works in Meidling work on Stephansplatz?
No one doubts that the Stephansplatz lift has reached the end of its life after 34 years and ten million journeys. What is needed, however, is the installation of a second elevator and then the repair of the first elevator. The argument goes that this also happened during the renovations in Meidling. So why not in the heart of Vienna? However, according to Wiener Linien, the comparison with Meidling is flawed.
Wiener Linien refers to feasibility studies
The Wiener Linien emphasize: “There have been discussions for years – after various feasibility studies – about how a second elevator could be built, but all sensible variants would fail due to the enormous costs and at the same time a threat to the UNESCO World Heritage. status of the center of Vienna because they structurally change Stephansplatz too much.” the city.
After installing the new lift, the transport company promises that you can look forward to a model that is much better equipped to prevent breakdowns. According to Wiener Linien, there is also no need for a second elevator, citing the traffic numbers on Stephansplatz. However, this only applies under the condition that all passengers adhere to the rule: “On the Wiener Linien network, the following applies: Please leave the lift to those who depend on it.”
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
