The Moscow commute by road or Metro is never fun, but a new proposal from the city authorities could see transport up and down the river without gridlock or crush.

A new hovercraft service up and down the city`s rivers and canals could make getting to work that bit easier.

"Organization of transport on the Moskva River will effectively supplement the existing transportation system? It will not require massive investment and will not occupy the urban area," Moscow`s Transport Department spokesperson told Ria Novosti news agency.

According to Moscow`s Transport Department hovercraft ferries equally effective on water, ice, and snow seem a suitable solution for Moscow. These vehicles will be able to operate all year around.

They will also be the fastest way of getting around the city, as they can travel at up to 70 KPH on water and up to 80KPH on snow and ice.
The planners expect each vehicle will carry about fifty people, and a ride will cost around $6.

The nineteen meter long and eight meter wide craft will most likely be used on routes linking the suburbs to the city center. It is yet to be decided whether the new transport will make any intermediate stops on the route.

The Moscow city authorities plan to launch the hovercraft service soon starting with just two routes. If the idea proves effective, more routes will be added.
sections: Hi-Tech