Argentine authorities have called on transport companies to restore normal bus services and pay accumulated debts. Ministry of Transport representatives stated that a meeting with business associations in the sector will be held on Thursday. In response, companies criticized the government, explaining that they reduced services by 30% in the AMBA metropolitan area due to significant arrears. 'We are doing what we have to do. They are not up to date with payments, and we must add the cost difference plus the increase in fuel, which has risen by 700 pesos in 15 days,' said one executive. The crisis originated when the management system was divided into three jurisdictions in September 2024. The sector is dragging a debt from the last quarter of 2025, February, March, and the advance for April. 'Today is the last day to credit the funds necessary for the drivers' salaries,' they emphasized. Despite a partial payment of subsidies, thousands of passengers will again be affected by irregular bus services. The system remains conditioned by a lack of funding, impacting the frequency of services. The national government has committed to crediting the funds this week, but the Buenos Aires province administration has postponed the payment until 'next Monday,' exceeding the legal deadline. Business leaders suggest the only solutions are 'expensive bank overdrafts' for the companies or drivers agreeing to work without pay until the money is credited. In contrast, services in the Buenos Aires City jurisdiction are operating at '100%' with recognized costs. National lines are owed 19.5 million pesos, and 9 million will be deposited per bus. 'It depends on them to restore regular services and lift the strike threats for tomorrow,' officials stated. The sector's crisis is also exacerbated by rising operational costs, such as fuel reaching 2,150 pesos per liter in February and supply issues.
Argentina's Public Transport Crisis Over Unpaid Subsidies
Argentine transport companies have reduced bus services in the capital due to massive government debt. Authorities and business leaders blame each other as thousands of passengers suffer from delays. The situation is exacerbated by rising fuel costs and management disputes.
