In Yoshkar-Ola City, the capital of Mari-El, most people get around by trolley bus. The trolley bus is a common mode of transport in larger Russian cities. The system in Yoshkar-Ola is one of the youngest in Russia, beginning service in the 1970’s. The municipal trolley bus line operates 139 buses on 11 routes that transport 154,000 passengers on a daily basis. The fare is 6 rubles per ride. The bus system employs more than 1100 people in functions ranging from management to maintenance.

As a visiting westerner,the experience of traveling by trolley bus should not be missed. Trolley buses were common in American cities until the 1950’s when the private automobile began to displace them. The buses a typically very crowded, so don’t expect to find a seat. As in any crowded place there will be some risk of pickpockets, so exercise caution. Once you are on the bus, you’ll need to find the conductor who is usually an older woman and pay your fare. You’ll need to make a hasty exit at your stop, so it’s a good idea to try to move toward the exit door well before you arrive there. People can be very aggressive making their way on and off the bus, so don’t be shocked if you are pushed or have to a bit of pushing yourself. As with any “native” activity in Russia, it is always more safe and enjoyable to travel by trolley bus in the company of a Russian Friend or guide.

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