Novoslobodskaya Station is one of 158 throughout Moscow. Many are decorated like this one with stained glass and mosaics, a sharp contrast to the often dreary reality of daily life above ground. People say we work well compared to Metro systems in other parts of the world. The Metro may be bombproof, but it is not comfortable. The standard ride involves hard benches, dim lighting, and doors often slam without warning.
Beggars wandering through the cars are another sign that times have changed.
Despite all that, an old-fashioned sense of order prevails and the mood is surprisingly good natured. Any young person who grabs a seat, if someone older is standing, may expect a gentle poke in the legs with a cane or umbrella. But, he says, underfunding is taking a toll, and some stations may have to be shut down without major new investment. If we don't increase our income, these problems will catch up with the Metro in time. According to still-upheld Soviet customs, more than half the people who ride the Metro every day don't pay a kopek.