The Chega party has voiced concern about the increase in road congestion in Madeira's West region. Roberto Gonçalves, a party official elected to the Ribeira Brava Parish Assembly, believes that measures announced by local councils, such as increased traffic control, need to be complemented by a long-term strategy.
Gonçalves questions the effectiveness of spending money solely to manage congestion consequences, advocating for investment in solutions that reduce the number of vehicles on the roads and offer real alternatives. He proposes strengthening public transport between Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol, and Calheta, with faster and more frequent connections, to decrease reliance on cars.
The official also expressed apprehension about potential changes to traffic flow directions in Ribeira Brava to ease through-traffic, warning that such measures should not harm residents' mobility. Chega calls for an integrated mobility strategy for the entire West region, involving the municipalities and the Regional Government, focusing on enhanced public transport and structural solutions.
