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Would you want scented trains in your city? Vienna commuters say no

AFP
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Would you want scented trains in your city? Vienna commuters say no
Care for a whiff of sandalwood on your way home from work? Photo: Joe Klamar/AFP

Four different aromas were tested on subway lines in Vienna as part of a summer trial aimed at improving commuters' experience.

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Four aromas – including "energizing" grapefruit and "relaxing" melon – were tested in several carriages on two subway lines in the Austrian capital during July.

Public transport compary Wiener Linien said on Monday it had dropped the idea to make fragrant trains a regular feature for now after 21,000 out of 37,000 participants voted against the plan in an online survey.

"I want to make sure that passengers feel comfortable in public transport," Vienna environment councillor Ulli Sima said.

READ ALSO: How to act like a local on Vienna's subway

During the test run, the scents were funnelled into the carriages through ventilation systems.

Of the four proposed scents, the "energize" mix made up of grapefruit, green tea, lemon and sandalwood was the most popular, Wiener Linien said.

Vienna's public transport used by 2.6 million people daily is known for its efficiency and affordability.

Almost half of Vienna's 1.9 million inhabitants hold a €365 ($407) yearly pass which was introduced in 2012 and allows them to use all public transport in the capital.

READ ALSO: Six fun facts about public transport in Vienna

The number of pass holders exceeds the number of registered cars in Vienna, according to Wiener Linien.

Last year, Wiener Linien introduced a food ban on subways after commuters complained of fast food, including kebab and pizza, smelling up their rides.

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