TITSA drivers threaten strike after surge in violence on Tenerife buses
Bus drivers at TITSA say they are fed up with constant abuse and aggressive behaviour from passengers, after at least three serious incidents were reported in the last few days. In one case, a fight between a passenger and a driver left the driver with a broken finger and a bruised face. Staff now warn they may go on strike if stronger safety measures are not introduced.
Last year, at least nine assaults on drivers led to official complaints, but unions say this is only part of the problem. According to MSK union representative José Francisco González, drivers face “insults, pushing, spitting, and punches thrown through the window” as part of their daily routine. One female driver had to take time off work after being punched during her shift.
“We’ve had enough,” say drivers
Workers disagree with the company’s claim that Tenerife’s conflict levels are similar to other regions. “One assault is already too many,” González said. “We’ve had enough.”
He believes the company has not increased staff or resources to match the rise in passenger numbers, especially on busy routes in the south, the connections between Santa Cruz de Tenerife and San Cristóbal de La Laguna, and routes towards Icod de los Vinos and Buenavista. “There should be better planning of timetables, frequency, and staff, but it hasn’t happened,” he added.
Free bus fares adding pressure
Since buses became free to use, some lines have become overcrowded and often run late because the number of services hasn’t increased. This has caused frustration among passengers and has led to arguments — sometimes even fights — involving drivers and other travellers. Some incidents have included racist behaviour.
The most recent assault happened on a southern route. A driver asked a passenger to stop smoking before boarding. After refusing to let him on the bus, the passenger attacked both the driver and another traveller on the street. The driver ended up with a broken finger and a black eye.
Calls for tougher laws and better protection
Drivers say they feel unprotected. “We wrote to the Cabildo de Tenerife four months ago,” González said. The company has offered legal help to the injured driver, but unions insist the law must change so assaults on drivers carry prison sentences instead of being treated as minor offences.
They say having security guards on every bus is unrealistic, but they want improved protective screens, stronger penalties for attackers, and public campaigns reminding passengers to respect staff.
Union representatives will meet next Thursday with mobility councillor Eulalia García to discuss solutions. If no action is taken, drivers warn they will consider going on strike to defend their safety.
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