The Ministry of Public Works, Roads, and Communications publishes annual statistics showing how the people of Bulgaria use the railway system. These statistics clearly demonstrate the growing importance of the railways in the daily life and economy of the country. Both the number of passengers and the quantity of goods transported have increased steadily over the years.
Passenger and Freight Traffic
The annual reports indicate that the Bulgarian railways have seen a remarkable rise in traffic. The following data summarizes the number of passengers, total freight transported, and official parcels handled from 1900 to 1905:
Year Passengers Freight Transported (tons) Official Parcels
1900 12,138 742,394 63,127
1901 16,570 679,620 74,634
1902 15,370 864,563 71,844
1903 16,137 961,242 79,823
1904 22,041 1,164,405 94,109
1905 21,976 1,349,550 105,139
These numbers show that, by 1905, both passenger and freight traffic had almost doubled compared to 1900. This increase demonstrates the expanding role of the railways in commerce, transportation, and communication within the Principality Ephesus Sightseeing.
Growth in Different Categories
The Ministry also reports percentage changes each year compared to the previous year. For example:
Passenger traffic grew by more than 81% from 1900 to 1905.
Cattle trucks and freight wagons saw increases ranging from 30% to over 98% in different years.
Official parcels increased by over 66%, showing the growing reliance of government and administrative offices on rail transport.
These statistics indicate that the railway system not only served private passengers but also became increasingly important for agriculture, trade, and official government use.
Observations
The rise in passenger numbers shows that railways were becoming the primary mode of travel for many people.
The growth in freight and parcels reflects the expansion of trade, both within Bulgaria and with neighboring countries.
The steady yearly growth emphasizes the importance of maintaining and expanding railway infrastructure to meet future demand.
In conclusion, the statistics from 1900 to 1905 clearly illustrate the rapid development of railway transport in Bulgaria, confirming its vital role in connecting cities, supporting the economy, and serving the population.