Article continues after video advertisement
Article continues after video advertisement
Originally designed to accommodate 1,400 buses a day, Bratislava’s Nivy bus station today serves fewer than 900. As of September 8, less than four years after opening, the station’s operating area has been reduced almost by half. Out of 36 platforms, only 19 remain, and instead of eight passenger exits, just two are available.
New retail space is expected to replace the closed platforms, which are now separated from the active part of the station by plasterboard. According to Slovak Lines, the station’s operator, the move reflects declining demand for the facility.
The highest fee in Slovakia
However, Sme daily reports that the downsizing followed Slovak Lines’ decision to raise access fees for competing bus carriers. Many carriers, including international ones, refused to pay the higher fees and now stop outside the station, leaving passengers potentially exposed to the elements.
The dispute dates back to 2021, when Slovak Lines—then the long-term provider of suburban transport in the Bratislava self-governing region—lost its contract to Arriva. Since 2023, other carriers have had to pay Slovak Lines €18 for each boarding or disembarking, the highest fee in Slovakia.
Slovak Lines defended the increase by arguing that the station is part of a shopping centre, offering added value to both passengers and carriers.
“The changes at the Nivy station are not aimed at improving passenger services, but at serving the commercial project of the operator, Slovak Lines,” said Arriva spokesman Peter Stach, adding that passengers will face restrictions and lower comfort as a result.
Related article
“We relieve ourselves in front of the public”: Bus drivers slam lack of toilets
Read more
Change of tone
Regional transport management is overseen by Bratislavská Integrovaná Doprava (BID). Company representatives inspected Nivy and expressed concern. “The situation clearly prioritises the commercial zone over buses,” BID director Martin Urmanič said, as quoted by the daily.
A day later, however, the tone shifted. “Together, BID and Arriva are communicating with Slovak Lines and trying to improve certain aspects. I believe that through joint efforts we can achieve the best possible result for the benefit of passengers and drivers,” Urmanič said.
When asked by Sme for clarification, BID spokeswoman Eva Vozárová described the outcome as the result of negotiations but offered no further details. Slovak Lines, meanwhile, stated that new entrances, including one open daily, and additional services will be introduced.
