Agreement Reached Amidst Challenges
Liemobil, Liechtenstein's public transport operator, and its contracted transport company, BOS PS Anstalt, have announced an agreement to secure the planned 7.5-minute public transport cycle set to commence in December 2025. The accord, reached on October 16, 2025, aims to ensure the reliable and safe operation of public transport services across the Principality of Liechtenstein. This development follows a period marked by financial difficulties for BOS PS Anstalt and concerns regarding personnel and service quality.
Addressing Financial and Operational Hurdles
The agreement comes after significant discussions addressing various issues. BOS PS Anstalt, a joint venture between BUS Ostschweiz AG and Philipp Schädler Anstalt, has been operating the main bus network on behalf of Liemobil since December 2021. However, the company has faced financial deficits since the start of its operations. These deficits have been attributed to unforeseen circumstances since the tender process, including increased absenteeism among staff due to the pandemic, the necessity for additional personnel, and rising costs for spare parts, fuel, and financing, exacerbated by the Ukraine war. Liemobil's President, Marco Öhri, stated that the agreement represents a 'turning point' and expressed confidence in a 'fresh start' that will benefit both driving personnel and passengers.
Enhancing Service Frequency and Future Outlook
The core of the agreement is the commitment to implement the strategic expansion of the bus network, specifically the introduction of a 7.5-minute interval on the most in-demand routes from December 2025. This enhanced frequency is part of a broader effort to improve public transport services in Liechtenstein. The government has also committed to increasing its financial contribution to Liemobil for the years 2025 to 2027, supporting service expansion and the electrification of the bus fleet.
Despite this immediate agreement, the current operating contract between Liemobil and BOS PS Anstalt is set to conclude in December 2028, and Liemobil has indicated that it will not be extended. Liemobil is currently evaluating future options for public transport operations beyond 2028, including potentially re-tendering the main line network or considering an 'Eigenbetrieb' (self-operation) model.
7 Comments
ytkonos
It's positive that the 7.5-minute cycle is secured, which is a clear benefit for users. However, the underlying financial issues of BOS PS Anstalt and the decision not to extend their contract beyond 2028 suggest this is more of a temporary fix than a long-term solution.
Matzomaster
Excellent! A 7.5-minute cycle will make public transport much more appealing.
Bermudez
So, they're fixing it for now, but the contract still ends in 2028? Sounds temporary.
Bella Ciao
Good to see Liemobil and the government investing in our future mobility.
Muchacha
It's good to see an agreement reached to ensure service continuity and frequency. But, it raises questions about the initial tendering process if the contracted company faced such significant unforeseen financial challenges, making one wonder about the due diligence performed before the contract was awarded.
ytkonos
While the enhanced service frequency is definitely a step in the right direction for public transport users, it's concerning that significant government funds are needed to prop up a private operator that has faced financial difficulties since its inception. We need more transparency on how these deficits accumulated.
lettlelenok
Fantastic! Expanding the network and improving service is a win for everyone.