What is happening with the bus fare in Cádiz?

The passenger transport sector in Spain faces a scenario of uncertainty following the repeal of the Real Decreto Ley that maintained transport subsidies, published in the Boletín Oficial del Estado (BOE). This measure, promoted by the Pedro Sánchez Government at the end of last year, has raised doubts about the fares that will apply starting Thursday, January 23 and Friday, January 24.

In Cádiz city, attention is focused on urban transport, specifically buses. Until now, bonobús users enjoyed a reduced price of 0.35 euros per trip, thanks to a 30% discount provided by the central Government (0.20 euros) and an additional 20% from the Ayuntamiento de Cádiz (0.15 euros). However, the elimination of state subsidies has left the future of these fares up in the air.

Ayuntamiento de Cádiz maintains discounts… for now

Faced with this situation, the Ayuntamiento de Cádiz has confirmed that, for now, the bonobús fare will remain at 0.35 euros per trip. The decision aims to wait for the situation to clear up following the changes announced by the central Government and the possible implementation of new subsidies by the Junta de Andalucía. These new subsidies could compensate for the loss of 30% in state support.

In addition, the local council has taken on a greater financial commitment. Starting January 23, the Ayuntamiento will cover 50% of the discount on the bonobús, increasing its contribution from 20% to 50%. This means that users will continue to pay 0.35 euros per trip, but the cost to the municipal coffers will increase significantly.

Budgetary impact and next steps

The mayor of Cádiz had already anticipated that the initial municipal subsidy of 0.15 euros per trip represented a cost of 1.3 million euros, a figure included in the budget for 2025. However, with the increase in contribution to 50%, annual expenditure could rise up to 3.2 million euros. This increase will have a direct impact on local finances, leading the government team to revise its economic forecasts.

Meanwhile, the future of transport subsidies also depends on the processing of the Ley Omnibus in the Congreso de los Diputados, the approval of which could take place in the coming days or weeks. This context of uncertainty has led the Ayuntamiento de Cádiz to adopt a cautious stance, maintaining current discounts until the legal and financial framework governing public transport in the coming months is defined.

In summary, urban transport users in Cádiz can breathe a sigh of relief for now, but the situation remains volatile. The final decision will depend on resolutions from the central Government, the Junta de Andalucía, and the progress of the Ley Omnibus in Congress. Meanwhile, the Ayuntamiento is assuming a higher cost to guarantee the continuity of reduced fares.