Chaos Returns to City Streets as Holidays End

As classes resume and the holiday season comes to a close, major cities and towns are once again plagued by chaotic traffic and congested roads. The largest metropolitan areas, such as Lisbon and Porto, are particularly affected.

Lisbon, the only European capital without a comprehensive mobility plan, has implemented measures to control old vehicles and restrict access to the city center. However, these efforts have been hindered by a lack of effective monitoring. The city’s “Quinta Circular” system, which prohibits vehicles over 3.5 tons from passing during the day, has also failed to achieve its intended purpose.

Both Lisbon and Porto are experiencing an increase in cars on the road, as well as a rise in TVDE transport, tourist vehicles, and construction activity, particularly with the expansion of the metro network.

The city’s design, which prioritizes automotive use, and the lack of sensitivity to mobility issues among local authorities, have contributed to the problem. According to Mario Alves, a transportation expert and founder of the Association for Urban Mobility by Bicycle (MUBI), it’s time to consider restricting movement. Alves believes that the issue is primarily a political one and that there are political solutions that can be implemented.

Expert Insights

Mario Alves, a renowned transportation expert, emphasizes the need for a more comprehensive approach to urban mobility. He argues that the current system is unsustainable and that drastic measures are necessary to reduce congestion and promote more environmentally friendly modes of transportation.

Related Topics

• The largest metropolitan area
• Designed for automotive use
• Mario Alves