It is official. The Ministry of Transportation has announced that it has reversed its earlier decision from a few weeks ago and will allow the arrangement to continue with the first Egged buses after Shabbos to transport passengers from the Kotel without payment. Of course, passengers taking advantage of the "free" ride will have to pay the bus fare the next day.
According to the new decision, as of this Motzei Shabbos, Egged will operate two rounds of "free" buses (bus lines #1 and #3) on every Motzei Shabbos and Motzei Chag... the first "free" buses will begin their route 15 minutes after Shabbos concludes. The second set of "free" buses will begin their routes according to the "Rabbeinu Tam" time for the conclusion of Shabbos.
What made them change their minds?
According to Kikar, Egged insisted on keeping the arrangement in place after it received many complaints about its stoppage. Complaints were received about the stoppage itself, after the arrangement has been in place for so long - since the end of the Six Day War. As well, many complained about the air of suspicion placed on their heads as people who would ride for free and not pay later as obligated to.
So, no need to reconsider that long walk to the Kotel on Shabbos afternoon. You will have a way home.
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