Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes to provide free regional transport for firefighters

The Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes region has announced that regional transport, including TER trains and regional buses, will be free for firefighters starting January 1, 2027. This measure extends the existing ‘Illico Sûreté’ program to include approximately 5,500 professional firefighters and 32,000 volunteers within the territory.

The initiative is estimated to cost the region 1.5 million euros annually. Officials stated the move serves as a form of recognition for the commitment of firefighters and aims to enhance the ability to provide first aid within the regional transport network.

In addition to transport benefits, the regional government announced plans to strengthen aerial resources available to departmental fire and rescue services (SDIS). This decision follows significant summer wildfires in areas such as the Diois and Savoie. The funding is intended to improve response times, particularly in mountainous and hard-to-reach sectors.