SANTA CRUZ DE TENERIFE, 26th Oct (EUROPA PRESS) –
The public transport operator GuaguaGomera is set to invest over 3 million euros in a programme aimed at upgrading its fleet. This initiative marks one of the most significant undertakings in the past decade, with the arrival of new buses expected in the first quarter of next year. The intention is to enhance services on the routes experiencing the highest demand, as revealed by the president of the Cabildo, Casimiro Curbelo.
Specifically, the plan includes the acquisition of two buses with 51 seats, another two with 22 seats, and eight with 35 seats. The new vehicles will incorporate features aimed at improving public transport accessibility for individuals with reduced mobility, ensuring that wheelchair spaces are available on all routes.
“This is yet another commitment to bolster the competitiveness and offerings of public transport in La Gomera,” Curbelo stated. He expressed hopes to continue implementing significant improvements in services and schedules, particularly concerning mobility between municipalities, the port, and the airport.
GuaguaGomera has witnessed a surge in passenger numbers across all its routes. In September alone, it recorded more than 25,000 passengers, making it the busiest month of 2024 so far, reflecting a nearly 25% increase.
Curbelo praised these figures, stating, “They underscore the importance of public transport for inter-island travel, both for residents and visitors to the island.” Thus far this year, over 254,000 individuals have utilised the bus to navigate the island, representing an 18% rise compared to the same timeframe in 2023.
Furthermore, Curbelo noted that last September, GuaguaGomera launched a contactless payment system that operates without mobile phone coverage, ensuring accessibility across all routes. “The service has been so well received that nearly 400 users took advantage of it in the first week alone,” he reported.
Examining route usage, line 7, which connects San Sebastián de La Gomera with the airport, has seen its patronage double compared to September of the previous year. Additionally, line 2, linking Vallehermoso with the capital and crossing through the municipalities of Agulo and Hermigua, recorded the highest passenger numbers last month, totalling 7,413 individuals.
The insular mobility advisor, Cristina Ventura, highlighted the increase in larger capacity vehicles to meet the growing demand. “This not only allows for a greater number of passengers to be transported but also decreases pollution levels per journey and contributes to reducing traffic accident rates on the island’s roads,” she added.
INFORMATION FOR PASSENGERS
The public company operates a website – www.guaguagomera.com – along with official Facebook and Instagram accounts, where users can access all necessary and up-to-date information regarding routes and schedules, including any potential alterations. This information is also displayed on posters at various bus stops throughout the island and at tourist information centres.
Currently, public road transport connects the island with services from Alajeró, Valle Gran Rey, and Vallehermoso to San Sebastián de La Gomera, as well as connections between the airport, the island capital, and Valle Gran Rey. Additionally, there are services departing from Alojera and La Dama towards Vallehermoso, plus a route connecting Vallehermoso with Valle Gran Rey.
