Ireland’s public transport companies are gearing up to enforce a new ban on electric scooters starting next week. Iarnród Éireann warns that passengers caught with e-scooters on trains could face a hefty €100 fine.
The National Transport Authority (NTA) implemented this ban due to concerns about potential fires, toxic fumes, and explosions caused by e-scooters’ lithium-ion batteries. However, the decision has sparked debate among sustainable transport advocates.
Jason Cullen, chair of the Dublin Commuter Coalition, questions the logic behind the ban. “They’re either safe or they’re not safe. If the government is saying things are safe, we need our transport regulator to come on board,” he argues.
The NTA has promised to review the ban within six months of its implementation. Cullen hopes this review will be thorough and not just a formality.
Interestingly, while e-scooters are banned on public transport, they remain allowed in taxis. The ban will be enforced on trains, buses, and the Luas.
Many commuters use e-scooters to solve the ‘last mile’ problem – getting from public transport stops to their final destinations. The ban could significantly impact these riders who have invested in e-scooters following recent government approval.
While e-scooters face restrictions, electric bikes are exempt from the ban. The NTA explains that e-bike batteries are considered less hazardous due to their positioning on the vehicle.
As the ban takes effect, commuters are advised to seek alternative transportation methods for their complete journeys.
According to The Journal, this situation highlights the ongoing challenges in balancing new transportation technologies with safety concerns on public transit systems.