The tension between Hungary’s Minister of Construction and Transport János Lázár and transportation expert Dávid Vitézy has reached a new zenith.

The latest exchange of criticisms began following Lázár's announcement of a ten-point action plan for the Hungarian State Railways (MÁV), which prompted a pointed response from Vitézy highlighting existing operational challenges within the railway system.

During an appearance on HírTV, Minister Lázár countered by dismissing Vitézy's criticisms.

He stated, 'The situation is that my colleagues informed me about Mr. Vitézy's criticism of the ten-point ministerial commitment.

This gradually, I hope, convinces everyone that Mr. Vitézy does not understand what he talks about, as anyone knowledgeable about rail or public transport must prioritize the passenger experience.'

Lázár did not stop there, further adding, 'Mr. Vitézy will become known in Hungarian politics for not accomplishing anything in his lifetime—either due to the electorate not giving him a chance or because he devised plans he could not realize.

He is a person in Hungary who has not executed anything he promised or mentioned, so he cannot be taken seriously.' He also made a disparaging comparison, suggesting that having played with model trains does not equate to expertise in railway matters.

Dávid Vitézy swiftly responded via a Facebook post, suggesting that if Lázár claimed competence in transportation, he should calculate the time required for an air-conditioned bus to replace an InterCity train from Budapest to Keszthely, stopping in 11 towns along the Balaton as the train would.

Vitézy highlighted the impracticality and logistical challenges by citing recent transport disruptions, emphasizing that the MÁV failed to organize a proper bus replacement during a major railway line closure to Győr.

In the same post, Vitézy invited Lázár to accompany him to several completed and operational transport projects in Budapest, citing examples such as the new tram lines, redeveloped transportation hubs, and advanced passenger information systems as evidence of tangible results contrary to Lázár's accusations.

Vitézy further questioned the halting of key transportation projects such as the HÉV development and suburban rail upgrades under Lázár’s ministry oversight.

This public spat underscores broader issues within Hungary's transportation policy and its execution, hinting at the challenges and political dynamics in improving infrastructure and services.

As this dialogue continues, it remains to be seen how these disputes will affect public transport priorities and policies in the nation.