Traffic Data Reveals Alarming Increase
Madeira Island continues to experience a significant increase in road traffic, according to recent data from the Regional Statistics Directorate of Madeira (DREM). In the first six months of 2024, traffic on the Via Rapida rose by 5.1%, while traffic on the Vias Expresso jumped by a staggering 9.1% compared to the same period in 2023. This comes after similar numbers were reported only 6 months ago.
Light Vehicle Traffic Increases
This surge in traffic has resulted in an average of nearly 36,600 vehicles on the Via Rapida and 7,000 vehicles on the Vias Expresso daily. The increase is primarily attributed to a rise in light vehicle traffic. On the other hand with heavy traffic, the variation was positive in vias Expresso (+1.2%), but negative on the Via Rápida (-0.8%).
A study on car traffic in 87 global cities places the capital of Madeira as the worst case in Portugal. Drivers take longer to travel 10 kilometers than in cities like Mumbai (India) or Barcelona (Spain). The population has been 'pushed' to the periphery, which has contributed to making the fast lane increasingly slower.
Congestion Creates Challenges For Residents And Visitors
While the growth in tourism and economic activity on the island are positive developments, the escalating traffic congestion poses challenges for both residents and visitors. Increased traffic leads to longer commute times, heightened air pollution, and a greater risk of accidents.
Countdown to Chaos? Island's Infrastructure Strains Under Traffic Surge
Funchal's traffic congestion has long been a challenge, particularly during peak hours. However, the issue continues to escalate beyond the city's limits, with increasing traffic in tunnels, more frequent traffic jams across the island, and the extremely fast proliferation of rental car companies exacerbating the situation. The current transportation system in Madeira appears to be perpetuating the cycle of increased traffic and congestion. The island's reliance on a few crucial traffic arteries, many of which lack viable alternatives, raises the question of when things will get out of hand? How long until the situation reaches a breaking point, with potentially severe consequences for residents, tourists, and the island's infrastructure?
Public Transport Offers A Sustainable Solution
To address this growing issue, advocating for an even greater investment in and utilization of public transportation must be the answer. A robust public transport system can provide a convenient and sustainable alternative to private vehicles, reducing the number of cars on the roads and mitigating the negative impacts of traffic congestion.
Improving Public Transport Infrastructure and Incentives
Expanding bus routes, improving service frequency, and integrating various modes of transport can make public transportation a more attractive option for both locals and tourists. Additionally, incentivizing the use of public transport through fare discounts or subsidies can further encourage its adoption. This is already taking place with the free pass for young people and the elderly.
Source: Regional Statistics Directorate of Madeira (DREM)
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