APRAM Clarifies Access Rules to Funchal Port Following Taxi Driver Protests
Madeira GuideThe Madeira port authority, APRAM, addresses taxi drivers' protests over access and operation rules at Funchal Port, citing unfair competition from buses.
The recent protest by Madeira taxi drivers at Funchal Port has prompted the Administration of Ports of the Autonomous Region of Madeira (APRAM) to clarify the existing rules for vehicle access and operations. The protest, characterized by honking rallies, was organized by the association Táxis-RAM to voice concerns over what they describe as unfair competition from buses, insufficient parking spaces, and the cessation of transport service sales near the passenger terminal.
Taxi drivers gathered on Avenida Sá Carneiro, a significant route in Funchal, to express their dissatisfaction with the current situation. The drivers argue that buses have been given preferential treatment, which has negatively impacted their business, particularly in a location heavily frequented by tourists.
In response, APRAM emphasized that the rules in place are designed to ensure smooth operations at the port and cater to the growing number of visitors. They assured that all stakeholders, including taxi services, are considered in the planning and implementation of these rules.
Funchal Port is a crucial point of entry for tourists visiting Madeira, making transportation services essential for managing the influx of visitors. The port's administration faces the challenge of balancing the needs of different transport providers while maintaining efficient operations.
This issue highlights the broader challenges faced by local transport services in adapting to increasing tourist numbers and competition from alternative transportation options. As the island continues to grow as a tourist destination, ensuring fair competition and adequate infrastructure will remain key priorities.
Sources
Madeira Guide
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