Government gets black eye for public transport chaos

Chaos and confusion reigned in Panama City on the long awaited day when Diablos Rojos disappeared from the streets after a 40 year run.

President Ricardo Martinelli apologized  for the chaos caused by the implementation of the nine latest routes of the Metro Bus system.
"I ask forgiveness and patience from the users who have been affected," said Martinelli, who at the same time acknowledged that Metro Bus operator Mi Bus must be better organized.
He announced that he will ask the newly appointed head of the transit authority (ATTT) Roberto Moreno to give him a full report of the problems encountered on Friday. The ATTT post has been a revolving door since Martinelli took office, with the last director fired for incompetence.
Various high ranking minister have made unfulfilled promises of the “final” introduction of Metro buses on all routes.
"I ask for a bit of calm and patience, because everything when you start is difficult. I am sure this problem can be solved," the president said.
On the issue of compensation for "diablos rojos" operators, the president said that the government will compensate all of them within the confines of the law.
The manager of Metro Bus operator Mi Bus, Ivan posada, recognized today that the company is facing its worst crisis due to the chaos in taking over of the final routes in Panama City.
"This is one of the worst crises facing the system, which is why I am calling on users to remain calm," he said.
Posada said that the company is working to improve the situation, which at this time is chaotic due to users cramming the stops.
He said that the problem is due to the company not being ready to assume operation of the new routes, which are in San Pedro, Concepción, Pacora, Panamá Viejo, Veranillo, Auto Motor, Alcalde Díaz, Ciudad Bolívar and Chilibre.
Users said there were not enough buses and a lack of information about which buses people should take.
Diablos rojos that still appeared on the streets wee subject to $150 fine. Several were towed away but in early afternoon, some were still circulating.