Titsa Drivers Raise Alarm Over Safety Issues Following Bus Route Adjustments in La Laguna

Members of the Health and Safety Committee at Transportes Interurbanos de Tenerife SA (Titsa) have voiced serious concerns regarding safety following the recent adjustments to several bus routes at the La Laguna Interchange. These changes, which were intended to enhance accessibility via the Padre Anchieta pedestrian bridge, have instead sparked a wave of apprehension among drivers.

The relocation affects bus lines 026, 217, 219, 270, 271, and 273, moving stops approximately 100 meters away from their previous locations on Ángel Guimerá Street. This significant shift has raised alarms about the safety of both drivers and passengers, as the new stops are not only farther away but also lack essential safety measures.

Communication Breakdown Raises Safety Red Flags

The Health and Safety Committee has reported that the changes were implemented without sufficient communication or information sharing, which has severely limited their ability to propose necessary safety measures before the relocation took place. This oversight has led to a troubling series of incidents since the new stops became operational, further heightening concerns about the overall safety of the area.

One of the most pressing issues is the glaring absence of security personnel at the newly established bus stops. This situation stands in stark contrast to the level of supervision that was previously available within the Interchange itself. As a result, drivers have expressed feelings of vulnerability and exposure, fearing for their safety while on duty.

Drivers Demand Enhanced Security Measures

In light of the inadequate surveillance at the new stops, drivers have reported a growing sense of insecurity. Currently, there is only one camera installed at the tram stop, which is insufficient for monitoring the area effectively. This lack of adequate oversight has fostered a perception of neglect from Titsa, prompting drivers to call for immediate action to enhance security measures.

To address these concerns, drivers are advocating for collaboration with La Laguna Town Hall to install additional surveillance cameras that would provide real-time access to the Local Police. Such measures are deemed crucial to protect both drivers and passengers from potential threats, including theft, vandalism, or even more serious acts of violence.

Identifying Broader Safety Risks

Beyond the immediate security concerns, the committee has identified several other risks associated with the recent relocation of bus routes. These include a lack of traffic supervision, unsanitary conditions due to the increased distance to restrooms, and heightened risks of pedestrian accidents stemming from reduced visibility at the new stops.

Additional issues highlighted by the committee encompass inadequate emergency protocols, risks of falls, poor visibility of speed signage when buses are parked, insufficient lighting, and a general lack of information available for users. The committee has urgently called for corrective measures to address these pressing issues and ensure the safety and health of all individuals involved.

Moreover, the report emphasizes that the committee should not be held liable for any accidents that may occur as a result of Titsa’s failure to comply with established safety standards. They have urged that if no action is taken to rectify these concerns, the Labour Inspectorate should intervene to enforce compliance and potentially impose penalties on the company.

Uncertain Future for Bus Stop Relocation

Amid these pressing safety concerns, the committee has raised questions regarding the temporary nature of the bus stop relocation. There are suspicions that the changes may be driven by underlying issues, such as the inability of the interior of the Interchange to accommodate the current volume of users. This raises the unsettling possibility that the relocation could become a permanent arrangement, further complicating the safety landscape for both drivers and passengers.

As the situation continues to unfold, the drivers remain vigilant, advocating for their safety and the safety of their passengers. They are determined to ensure that Titsa addresses these critical issues promptly and effectively, as the well-being of everyone who relies on public transportation in La Laguna hangs in the balance.

Key points

• Workers from Titsa’s Health and Safety Committee have reported safety issues following the relocation of bus routes.
• The changes were made without adequate information provided to the drivers.
• New bus stops are located approximately 100 meters from their original positions on Ángel Guimerá Street.
• Concerns include the absence of security personnel and insufficient surveillance at the new stops.
• Drivers are calling for additional security measures, including more cameras and traffic supervision.
• Other risks identified include unsanitary conditions and pedestrian safety issues.
• The committee has expressed doubts about the temporary nature of the relocation.