142 cameras and two barrier-free emergency calls per platform will bring the Unterpflaster tram (U-Strab), which consists of the stops Eichenstrasse, Matzleinsdorfer Platz, Blechturmgasse, Kliebbergasse and Laurenzgasse, technically up to date over the next five years.
Over the past decades, Vienna has continuously improved its quality of life and is now one of the most livable cities in the world. The fact that Vienna leads various international rankings is not least due to the high quality of its public transport. In order to further secure and expand this high standard, Wiener Linien will improve safety and accessibility on the U-Strab from 2025. Starting at the Eichenstrasse station, both cameras and barrier-free emergency calls will bring the stops up to date. The project is scheduled to be completed in 2029.
Cameras, barrier-free emergency call, increased staff deployment
In the future, the events will be recorded on a total of 142 cameras in all U-Strab stations. The cameras record in the respective stop as well as in lifts, stairs, escalators and passages. The footage is stored for at least 48 hours and can be used by the police to investigate incidents. If this is not necessary, the recordings will be automatically deleted. The cameras also enable more efficient and targeted deployment of Wiener Linien staff. There will also be two barrier-free emergency calls available on each platform. The emergency call button there automatically connects passengers to the Wiener Linien control center. This means incidents can be reported quickly and support can be sent quickly in an emergency. In the future, an almost two-meter-high fence between the tracks at the Eichenstrasse stop will ensure more safety.
urban development area
There is already a high volume of passengers on lines 1, 6, 18, 62 and the associated U-Strab stations Eichenstrasse, Matzleinsdorfer Platz, Blechturmgasse, Kliebergasse, and Laurenzgasse: On an average working day, the Vienna lines record around 60,000 passengers boarding and alighting . The expansion of the subway with the future U2 station Matzleinsdorferplatz and numerous construction projects in this area will further increase passenger volumes.
mayor Michael Ludwig: “Vienna is not only one of the most livable cities in the world, but also one of the safest. This is also due to our reliable and safe public transport. The safety of the people of Vienna is always my top priority. That’s why we’re now taking another step: With the new security package, we’re increasing technical support to further increase the feeling of security among Viennese people in the underground tram stops.”
Public transport city councilor Peter Hanke: “The safe operation of public transport is our top priority. With targeted investments like this package, we ensure that Wiener Linien will continue to offer state-of-the-art technology, maximum comfort and maximum safety in the future.”
Monika UnterholznerDeputy General Director of Wiener Stadtwerke: “We are continually investing in the modernization of Vienna’s public transport systems in order to make them future-proof at all levels. Our goal is to create public transport that continues to be not only reliable and comfortable, but also meets the highest safety standards – today and in the future.”
Alexandra ReinaglManaging Director of Wiener Linien: “At Wiener Linien, safety is our top priority. Thanks to our attentive teams and the use of the latest technology, we work closely with the City of Vienna to create an environment in which our passengers can feel safe and comfortable.”
District leader Margareten, Silvia Jankovic: “Safety in the U-Strab stations is of central importance to us in Margareten, because for many people these stops are a daily part of their everyday journey. With the new security package from Wiener Linien, an important step is taken and the feedback and concerns of residents are addressed. Especially at the stations in the district, such as Eichenstrasse and Matzleinsdorfer Platz, we very much welcome the planned measures such as the installation of cameras and barrier-free emergency calls. These investments make a significant contribution to strengthening Margaret’s sense of security.”
Last U-Strab renovation measures in 2012
From 2009 to 2012, the U-Strab stops were renovated for the first time since they went into operation in the late 1960s. The stop areas were re-tiled for around 18 million euros, lifts were installed and the stops were made barrier-free accessible. In addition, floor coverings were replaced, additional light sources were created and a new guidance system was installed.
Video surveillance in the public transport network since 2005
In 2005, test operations for video surveillance began in two trains on the U3 line and two tram sidecars on Bim lines 6 and 18. Since then, the number of cameras has increased to around 14,000. Around 3,000 cameras monitor what is happening in the station buildings, and cameras are also used in the trams, buses and subways. The recordings are automatically deleted after 48 hours. All Wiener Linien elevators are also equipped with video surveillance.