Long lines of users waiting for the MIO feeder routes and train stations full of people were seen this morning on the California transportation system, which has 70 fewer buses in service since last Saturday, September 16th.
Although transport is operating normally at some points, significant delays occurred on routes A19A, A14A, T31 and E21 at Universidades station, while at Aguablanca Terminal and Sanín Terminal, routes T50, T40, P74 and P47B were affected.
50 buses from Blanco y Negro Masivo and 20 from GIT Masivo were removed from the system after Metro Cali reported that the two companies had not reported the completion of the overhaul, which allows an extension of the useful life of the fleet to carry out the replacement of the same and this must be carried out on vehicles that have driven more than 650,000 kilometers.
In response, Eduardo Bellini, Managing Director of Blanco y Negro, stated that “these buses are in perfect mechanical, technical and safety condition.” They meet the technical-mechanical test and all safety elements to be able to offer the service in Cali. “
Regarding the mandatory inspection of the vehicles, he pointed out that Metro Cali owes them almost $36,000 million for operations. “Therefore, it is quite complex that the management company does not fulfill this important contractual obligation and forces us to undertake an overhaul.” is extremely expensive. “, knowing that the buses are in perfect working order,” said Bellini.
Given the mobility conditions, the Trade Union and Economic Committee of the Valley, the Cali Chamber of Commerce and Propacífico Metro Cali called to find solutions with the operators, ensuring that the more than 222 buses that have left the system, for various reasons, for example, the liquidation of one of the operators, to resume operations.
“We understand the obligation of both parties to respect the terms of the contract, but this decision contradicts the need to increase the frequency of buses and reduce the time of their routes, as expressed by the people of Cali in the “Cali How Are We Going”. Opinion poll”.
In addition, they question the authorization granted by the mayor a few months ago for the operation of traditional public transport buses. “There is no evidence of any intention to improve the service as these are vehicles whose safety standards are no higher than those of the MIO fleet.”
