Copenhagen's new light rail system begins service today, creating unfamiliar traffic situations for road users. The system operates on public roads alongside cars, bicycles and pedestrians, unlike the enclosed S-train network.
Transport officials urge extra caution as residents adjust to sharing roads with light rail vehicles. Jakob Bøving Arendt, director of the Council for Safe Traffic, emphasized the need for heightened awareness.
He said all road users must polish their good habits and respect signage around the new transit system. The warning follows a recent fatal accident involving a cyclist during test runs at the Glostrup interchange.
Two cars also strayed onto light rail tracks north of the Søndre Ringvej intersection. Both incidents occurred when drivers missed signage and entered dedicated rail corridors, according to municipal reports.
Local resident Andreas Axen described the adjustment period for regular commuters. He noted several near-misses where pedestrians almost stepped in front of approaching trains.
The light rail operates on a dedicated center lane, requiring pedestrians to check both ways before crossing. Axen expressed cautious optimism that following traffic signals should prevent most incidents.
Operators installed 56 signs and painted warnings on 51 bicycle paths crossing the rail route. The fatal accident prompted acceleration of these safety measures.
Company officials will evaluate whether to maintain all signage and road markings permanently. Operations manager Frank Pedersen stated the company is doing everything possible to ensure safety.
He emphasized that safety also depends on other road users being aware of the new green trains. The Danish Transport Authority approved safety protocols for the first phase on October 9.
One challenge is the light rail's longer braking distance compared to buses. The fixed-track system cannot swerve to avoid obstacles, requiring extra stopping space.
The first passenger service departed Ishøj at 11:03 today. This initial segment runs from Ishøj to Rødovre Nord with 12 stations.
Passengers can transfer to S-trains at six stations: Lyngby, Buddinge, Herlev, Glostrup, Vallensbæk and Ishøj. The full Copenhagen light rail network is scheduled for completion by summer 2026.
The 9.6 billion kroner project is owned by the Capital Region and 11 municipalities. These include Ishøj, Vallensbæk, Hvidovre, Albertslund and seven other local councils.
The system's integration with existing road infrastructure presents clear adaptation challenges. While safety measures are in place, public awareness and behavior will ultimately determine its safe operation.