Porto implements restrictions on Tuk-Tuks and tourist buses in the historic center

The city of Porto has taken a significant step in managing local tourism by announcing new restrictions on the circulation of tuk-tuks and tour buses in the historic center. Porto implements restrictions on Tuk-Tuks to address this issue comprehensively.

Restrictive measures for tourist vehicles in the historic center

The plan, presented by Rui Moreira, involves limiting the circulation of tuk-tuks and tourist buses in various areas of Porto’s historic center, particularly between Rua de Gonçalo Cristóvão and the Ribeira Tunnel. Additional restrictions will also be imposed, such as limiting the circulation of double-decker buses and gradually phasing out the tourist train by 2026. This initiative responds to the growing tourist pressure in the area and the need to maintain sustainability and the quality of the urban environment.

The project, which will initially operate as a pilot, will limit the number of tuk-tuk and tourist bus operators, granting licenses only to selected companies. For tuk-tuks, 40 electric vehicles will be allowed to operate, distributed among five licensed companies, each with eight vehicles. This significant reduction aims to minimize environmental impact and congestion on the narrow streets of the historic center.

Impact of metro works and reduction of individual traffic

Mayor Rui Moreira emphasized that with the completion of the new Rosa and Rubi metro lines, a decrease in the use of individual transportation in the city is expected. According to him, it is essential to implement these restrictive measures now, in anticipation of the end of the construction works, to prevent the freed-up space from being occupied by an excess of commercial tourist operations. Moreira highlighted the importance of consistency with decarbonization efforts and the promotion of clean public transportation, stressing that it makes no sense to allow highly polluting vehicles in the heart of the city.

Regarding tourist buses, it was decided that these vehicles will have to park in designated areas, such as the Alfândega, Asprela, and Camélias parks. Each of these parks will have pre-established and regulated routes to avoid negative impacts on traffic flow and residents’ quality of life.

Implementation and enforcement

The Porto City Council plans to begin implementing these new restrictions by the end of August, establishing a transitional period to assess the effectiveness of the measures and determine if additional interventions will be needed. Furthermore, a dedicated team of the Municipal Police will be formed to ensure compliance with the new rules, ensuring that the restricted zone is respected.

The new restrictions imposed by the Porto City Council represent a proactive response to the increasing pressures of tourism in the city’s historic center. By limiting the circulation of tuk-tuks and tourist buses, the municipality seeks to balance the need to promote tourism with the preservation of residents’ quality of life and the protection of the urban environment. Porto implements restrictions on Tuk-Tuks as part of this broader strategy.

These measures, combined with the completion of public transportation infrastructure projects, demonstrate Porto’s commitment to ensuring a sustainable and orderly future for the city.

Source: Eco Sapo