Trams in Vienna

The Vienna tramway network (German: Wiener Straßenbahn-Netz) is a vital part of the public transport system inVienna, capital city of Austria. In operation since 1865, the network reached its greatest extent during the interwar period (1918–1939). Today, it is still one of world's largest tram networks, at about 172 km (107 mi) in total length and 1031 stations.

The trams on the network run on standard gauge track. Since 1897, they have been powered by electricity, at 600 VDC. The current operator of the network is Wiener Linien. In 2009, a total of 186.9 million passengers used the network's trams. As of January 2013, the number of trams or tramsets scheduled in service in peak periods was 404, comprising 215 single cars and 189 motor and trailer sets.

 

History

The earliest precursor of the Vienna tramway network was the Brigittenauer Eisenbahn, a horsecar tramway. From 1840 to 1842, it led from theDonaukanal to the recreational establishment known as the Kolosseum, at the end of the Jägerstraße.

Some two decades later, several firms competed for a concession to construct an urban "horse-tramway" in Vienna. Schaeck-Jaquet & Comp prevailed. By October 1865, trams could be recorded as operating between Schottentor andHernals, and on 24 April 1866, the route was extended to Dornbach.

Subsequently, the municipality of Vienna tried to persuade other firms to construct tramway lines. However, due to the difficult conditions, all of the competing firms (including Schaeck-Jaquet & Comp) arranged a merger, leaving the newly formed Wiener Tramwaygesellschaft as the only remaining firm. In later years, that firm built the majority of the Vienna tramway network. The social conditions were nevertheless such that labour disputes arose. In 1872, the Neue Wiener Tramwaygesellschaft was formed as a competitor, but was able to build only a network in the suburbs.