The President of the Tenerife Cabildo, Rosa Dávila, announced a significant mobility reform yesterday (Friday) aimed at improving traffic flow and preserving the island's natural beauty. Among the 70 measures unveiled, one of the most notable is the prohibition of tourist buses from accessing the Anaga Rural Park starting January 2025.
Dávila emphasised that the new measures are part of a broader strategy to replace what she described as the "obsolete model" of mobility currently in place on the island. The revamped plan consists of seven key points to enhance transportation efficiency and sustainability.
According to Dávila, these initiatives have already led to the elimination of 23 million vehicle trips over the past 15 months, significantly reducing traffic congestion.
The Spanish Socialist Workers' Party (PSOE) has expressed scepticism regarding the reported figures, requesting detailed reports to substantiate the claims. In response, Dávila defended the administration's commitment to free public transportation, highlighting the addition of 7,000 new bus journeys designed to alleviate congestion.
Reflecting on her campaign promise from the 2023 elections to eliminate traffic jams on motorways within 90 days, Dávila acknowledged the complexity of the issue post-election. Despite these challenges, she praised her government's "courage" in tackling the island's mobility problems and called for a unified effort from opposition groups to support a "great pact for sustainable mobility."
Specific Measures for Anaga and Beyond
The ban on large tourist buses in Anaga will be complemented by the construction of a new parking area in Las Canteras, developed in collaboration with the La Laguna Council. This initiative aims to further restrict traffic to the Anaga Massif, a protected natural area renowned for its stunning landscapes and biodiversity.
Additionally, Dávila mentioned a forthcoming similar measure for Masca, although she did not specify whether this regulation would take effect in 2025.
Environmental and Community Impact
These measures are designed not only to reduce traffic congestion but also to protect Tenerife's fragile ecosystems from the detrimental effects of an excessive number of vehicles. By limiting access for large tourist buses, the Cabildo aims to preserve the tranquillity and environmental integrity of Anaga Rural Park, ensuring that both residents and visitors can continue to enjoy its natural splendour without the disruptions caused by heavy traffic.
The Cabildo’s proactive approach aims to balance the island's appeal as a top tourist destination with the need for sustainable and efficient transportation solutions.
