Readers: “High time that Sweden has high speed” – New Technology

The majority gives the thumbs up for the government’s focus on high-speed trains between major cities. It is clear from the answers in Ny Teknik latest Question of the Month.

“High speed, good or bad? “. The question was asked of the subscribers of Ny Teknik newsletters, policy makers in the research firm reaction database and nyteknik.se in October. The respondents to rank their approach on a seven-point scale ranging from “very negative” to “Very positive”.

The response has been massive: Nearly 13 000 people have answered the question, and over 7,000 reader comments have poured in. Around half of the respondents – a total of 47.3 percent – consider themselves to be very positive about the government’s plans for a high speed railway. A third count themselves as positive or more than supportive of the initiative.

Many commentators think it is high time for Sweden to future concentrate on getting to the super fast trains. Among other things, highlighted the environmental aspect as a strong argument.

“It feels like environmentally friendly alternative and a major step towards a sustainable society.”

“Fast trains are the future. Environmentally, convenient and cost effective. “

” It is always right to focus on the development of infrastructure. “

Bo-Lennart Nelldal, professor of train traffic planning at KTH, is not surprised by the result.

- I will not be surprised. In general, not many people receive when dealing with positive measures on transport. This view is also reflected in the politicians where there is a broad consensus that invest in high-speed trains.

A common question among the readers is the enormous environmental gains becomes.

– The major impact would be visible in domestic traffic – trains would be able to largely replace air in southern Sweden. A high-speed rail would also increase capacity for freight and regional trains on the existing main line, which can reduce traffic by diesel-powered trucks and cars.

But not everyone is convinced that the planned investment is good. Over 17 percent are negative, and would, among other things rather see a real effort on the modernization of the existing railway line.

“Prepare Instead, the existing railway network and expand dual-track “, says one.

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