The Green Time: Pillars of Shame
An investigation by 'The Green Time' examines the southern branch of the fast lanes project in Rishon LeZion: about 4,000 people per day use the park-and-ride facility, but the lack of feeder bus lines perpetuates dependence on private cars. 'Regular' bus passengers report longer travel times due to separation pillars. Meanwhile, the report reveals illegal construction waste dumping in Beit Shemesh, with suspected municipal involvement.
The investigative report by 'The Green Time' examines the southern branch of the fast lanes project in western Rishon LeZion, recently launched. Every day, about 4,000 people arrive at the 'Park and Ride' facility, leave their cars, and board free shuttles to Tel Aviv. The report notes that while the project is impressive in execution, it suffers from fundamental problems: the lack of feeder bus lines forces passengers to begin their journey by private car, thus entrenching car dependency. Moreover, 'regular' bus passengers report travel times lengthened by 15–20 minutes due to physical separation pillars in the lane, designed to eventually allow paid access for private cars. The '15 Minutes' organization claims thousands of bus trips are affected daily. Ayalon Highways acknowledges the complaints and is considering removing pillars at certain entrances. Concurrently, the report addresses illegal construction waste dumping in the Rama G neighborhood of Beit Shemesh, where an area of about 150 dunams has become a magnet for trucks. Residents and a council member complain about thick dust clouds. The municipality's CEO denies involvement, claiming it is criminal activity, but the report raises suspicion that the municipality itself uses the area as a free waste solution.