The transport situation in the Great Plain

Today transport plays a crucial role in our socioeconomic life. In the two regions which comprise the Great Plain transport as a sector constitutes a significant share of overall GDP (5%). Transport affects the competitiveness of regions and therefore the quality of life. Good transport stimulates company activities, attracts direct investment, improves purchasing and distribution, and enables the realisation of extra income through international trade. Good transportation infrastructure supports the development of rural areas and promotes the convergence of regions. As a result of travelling between settlements or commuting, public transport fosters the mobility of the workforce. The quality of public transport affects employment and schooling in different geographical areas, and access to services which are limited in a given area. This study analyses the transport situation in the Northern Great Plain and Southern Great Plain regions. (The two regions are referred to hereafter as the Great Plain.) The paper presents the structure and quality of the road system, and the accessibility by road of Hungarian settlements. Furthermore, we highlight the features of rail, air and waterway transpor