BUS CRISIS: 86% think bus service worse or same

A MONTH AND A HALF after the Diablos Rojos exited Panama’s public transit system, problem with Metro buses in the districts of Panama and San Miguelito, show no sign of a solution.

In the midst of the crisis, the level of dissatisfaction of the population continues to increase says La Estrella.
“Contrary to what The Transit Authority (ATTT) says, the Metrobus service continues to accumulate rejection by users.
The latest survey conducted by the company Ipsos for FOX Report and La Estrella reveals that 86% of those consulted think that the bus service has worsened or Metro Bus took over on March 15.
The survey was made April 18 and 22.
47% of respondents think the shuttle has worsened.
39% think that the bus  service provided by the company Mi Bus in the districts of Panama and San Miguelito, remains the same as before.
Only 14% said that the bus service has improved in the two main districts.
Esperana Mena,a spokesperson for transport users says the figures are not a surprise as the service provided by Metro Bus is getting worse and users continue to suffer, while the government says it is concerned, but does nothing.
The leader of the users said that while the government claims that they are looking for solutions, but for those who have to take a bus every day things are getting worse.
In his opinion, the solution of the problem is to assign a greater number of transport units according to the actual number of users in the city of Panama and not the company's calculations.
In the midst of the crisis, transport crisis,  some sectors, including within the government, is the suggestion to break the contract with Mi Bus and allow another concessionaire to provide service.
The Transportation Committee of the National Assembly has  joined the critics and assessed the possibility of permitting the entry of another provider.
Committee members toured some routes and the most congested areas ans after the tour presented a report to the full Legislature.
The deputies, suggested staggering work hours to reduce congestion on the capital's main roads.
They also mentioned the possibility of breaking the monopoly to allow other companies to provide service, but first they need to analyze the legal ramifications of the contract.