On December 1, the first stage of the UZ-3000 program began, which allows free travel by Ukrzaliznytsia trains up to 3,000 km on specially designated routes, including from combat areas. The second stage provides for a gradual expansion of routes and dates, and the program helps relieve peak routes and maintain the financial stability of the railway.

The text of the relevant resolution was published by People's Deputy Alexey Goncharenko (European Solidarity). The program provides that every citizen will be able to travel up to 3,000 km by train within the country for free during the year..

It is noted that this volume was not chosen by chance, because 3000 km approximately corresponds to the longest round-trip route in Ukraine, so the passenger will be able to conditionally “cross the country from one end to another” for free. The program is launched in two stages. The first stage starts on December 1 and covers special routes, primarily from areas of possible or active hostilities, as well as from territories included in state registers of hostilities or occupation. At this stage, Ukrainians will be able to use part or all of their 3,000 km by combining several trips within the available routes and dates.

The second stage involves expanding the list of routes, trains and operating periods. "

The UZ-3000 program does not apply to luxury cars and high-speed trains: SV, business class, Intercity and Intercity+. Free travel will be valid only in standard carriages - reserved seats, compartments and seats on regular long-distance trains. International flights are also not eligible for the program..

To take advantage of free kilometers, the passenger will need to issue a ticket in the usual way - through the website, the Ukrzaliznytsia mobile application or at the railway ticket office. The system will automatically take into account the remainder of the available kilometers and write them off for the selected route if it meets the program requirements.

" The program will also help relieve peak traffic and stimulate travel during off-peak periods,” said Prime Minister Yulia Sviridenko.