Cuenca’s Mobility Crisis: The Bus Strike and the City’s Response

Cuenca is currently facing a significant urban mobility crisis as a bus transport strike has left thousands of citizens struggling to get around the city. The conflict centers on a long-standing dispute between the Chamber of Transport of Cuenca (CTC) and the municipal government over bus fares, which have been frozen since 2018. The situation has forced the municipality to activate an emergency plan to ensure citizens can reach their destinations.

The core issue, according to the transport guild, is that the current fare of $0.30 is insufficient to cover operating costs. A technical study commissioned by the Cuenca Municipality and conducted by the University of Cuenca suggests a fare adjustment to between $0.44 and $0.47. However, Mayor Cristian Zamora has maintained a firm stance, stating that he will not approve a fare increase without a guaranteed improvement in service.

This impasse has led the transport companies to take matters into their own hands. On August 4th, the CTC announced a plan to "adapt" their operations, which translated to a significant reduction in service, particularly on peripheral routes. In a strong rebuke, Mayor Zamora has warned the companies that "with the service to the people, you DO NOT play," and has initiated legal action against several transport companies.

• August 4th: The CTC announces a reduction in service, prioritizing high-demand routes, and warns that units no longer able to operate will be returned to the municipality.

• August 5th: A group of drivers parks their buses in the Rafael María Arízaga sector, waiting for a meeting with the mayor.

• August 6th: Bus service is significantly reduced, causing long lines at bus stops. The municipality announces an emergency service will be activated at 7:00 PM to meet the demand.

• August 7th: Mayor Zamora announces he has notified seven transport companies that they are under investigation for non-compliance. He warns of potential sanctions, including fines, temporary suspension, or permanent withdrawal of operating permits.

In response to the strike, the Cuenca Municipality, led by Mayor Zamora, has launched a comprehensive contingency plan to assist citizens. The EMOV EP has deployed its Public Transport Control Department to monitor compliance with bus routes and frequencies, but also to aid in the emergency service. This plan involves the collaboration of various public and private entities, including:

• EMOV EP: 2 buses and 8 patrols

• Fire Department: 1 bus

• Municipal Guard: 2 vans

• Prefectura del Azuay: 2 vans

• EMAC EP: 2 trucks and 1 bus

• ETAPA EP: 5 vehicles and 1 van

• Van Service: 2 double-decker buses and 2 additional buses

The emergency transport service operates from four key transfer points as of August 7th at 7:00 PM.

Emergency Transfer Points:

• From Terminal de Transferencia Arenal: To Sayausí, Huizhil, and San Joaquín.

• From Centenario: To Control Sur, El Valle, Totoracocha, and Baguanchi.

• From Mercado 10 de Agosto: To Racar and Miraflores.

• From La Chola Cuencana (Manuel Vega and Sangurima): To Ochoa León and Challuabamba.

Additionally, the city's Tranvía system will extend its operating hours until 11:00 PM to accommodate the increased demand.

The situation remains fluid, but the municipal government is actively working to ensure the mobility and well-being of all citizens.