A major bus operator is preparing to sue Oslo's public transport authority over unrealistic timetables. The company claims the schedules fail to account for actual traffic conditions.
Nobina, which operates numerous bus routes in Oslo and Akershus, says the problem affects both passengers and drivers. The company employs the bus drivers for these routes.
Transport authority Ruter pays based on scheduled driving distance and time. Nobina argues these schedules do not reflect real-world conditions, resulting in underpayment for their services.
Company officials say negotiations have failed to resolve the dispute. They now feel compelled to pursue legal action against the transport authority.
Data presented in the legal notice shows multiple bus lines running minutes behind schedule on every departure. This creates daily disruptions for commuters throughout the Oslo region.
The situation causes significant stress for drivers, according to the company. A union representative expressed concern that the pressure could potentially lead to accidents.
Ruter declined to comment on the specific allegations when approached by media. The transport authority stated it would respond directly to Nobina.
This legal confrontation highlights the practical challenges of maintaining reliable public transportation in growing urban areas. Unrealistic schedules ultimately serve neither operators nor passengers effectively.