In a bid to battle rising fuel prices and quell disquiet from citizens, the Albanian government has announced that as of 3 April, every city in the country will have car-free days on the first Sunday of the month.
The news comes amid the global energy and fuel crisis that has hit Albania hard as prices reached some of the highest on the continent, sparking week-long nationwide protests.
“Unfortunately, we are feeling the energy crisis indiscriminately. Recent events have put in trouble all the global economies, and the pockets of every family, and the consequences are being felt in our country,” said Minister of Tourism Mirela Kumbaro said while announcing the news on Thursday (25 March).
“We need to reduce vehicle traffic as much as we can, and if we cannot avoid starting the car every day, at least do it on the holiday. That is why we start the Car Free Day plan from the first Sunday of every month,” she added.
Kumbaro was quick to add that the measure is not just to save spending money on fuel, but it will also benefit the environment.
“These are concrete commitments that improve our lives, to leave the children a the minister, adding, “I invite each of you to become partners of this initiative in your cities: for saving, for a cleaner environment, for health.”
Since Russia invaded Ukraine, fuel prices in Albania have increased significantly. As one of Europe’s poorest countries with a minimum wage of just €240 a month, prices of over €2 per litre hit businesses and families hard.
This, combined with increases in food prices of up to 40%, resulted in large protests across the country that took place over a week. Demands from protestors to cut taxes and suspend VAT were refused by the government. Instead, a board to monitor and set prices was established.
Any businesses found abusing market rates will face fines and possible license revocation.
Kumbaro nodded to the establishment of the Transparency Board, noting that “the Transparency Board plays a crucial role in avoiding abuse of the price of fuel and basket products, to protect every citizen. This is a commitment that will continue unabated.”
The government on Monday (21 March) ordered the closure of all schools and state institutions for one day to conserve electricity.
