Emergency Public Transportation Operations this weekend Amidst Ongoing Security Concerns

Rublic transportation in Israel is set to operate in an emergency mode over the upcoming weekend, with limited details available, as confirmed by the Ministry of Transportation. Last week, the Ministry announced a limited schedule for the weekend just hours before services began. It is expected that the public transportation services for this Friday and Saturday will resemble the ones provided last weekend, where certain bus lines extended their hours until 10:00 p.m. on Fridays and began operations at 6:00 a.m. on Saturdays.

Israel Railways, which had been partially operational, used a "full and travel" approach connecting Be'er Sheva to Tel Aviv Savidor Center and other stations on specific routes. Trains were running on an hourly basis starting at 7:00 a.m. on Saturdays in coordination with security authorities and according to demand. Notably, the Tel Aviv to Jerusalem train line is expected to remain inactive, despite the demand from families of evacuees and security forces.

However, the Ministry of Transportation has not yet provided clear information regarding these plans, prompting criticism from public officials, including Tel Aviv-Yafo Deputy Mayor Mittal Lehavi. She emphasized that the current situation is an emergency and urged the Ministry to respond with appropriate planning.

Last Saturday, transportation apps failed to provide real-time updates for bus schedules. The Ministry stated that they would prioritize real-time information based on on-ground needs and encouraged passengers to check their website and the national public transportation information center (8787) for updates.

In a surprising move, the Municipality of Tel Aviv-Yafo has announced the revival of the "Naim on the Weekend" transportation system, albeit in a reduced format. This decision comes in response to the Ministry's indecision on bus services for the upcoming weekend. The revived service aims to meet essential needs, including transport to major hospitals and enabling visits to family members.

Deputy Mayor Mittal Lehavi urged the Ministry of Transportation to act responsibly and promptly in addressing the transportation challenges. She stressed that the transportation service is crucial, particularly for soldiers and female soldiers trying to reach their families during these trying times.

Passengers seeking information on routes and schedules for "Na'im on the weekend" are advised to check various transportation apps like Multi-Pass, Bus Close, and Mobit, or contact the service directly at 03-7313911.

The uncertainty surrounding public transportation operations highlights the challenges faced by the Ministry as they adapt to the ongoing security situation and the need for emergency transportation services.