![Water Shortage in Algarve](https://www.agroportal.pt/wp-content/uploads/2024/01/sand-2329153_1280.jpg)

**The Algarve region** is experiencing a **significant water shortage** as we head into 2024, particularly in the **Barlavento** and **Arade basins**, which have reported the **lowest water availability**. Despite this alarming trend, **water consumption continues to rise**, raising concerns about sustainability and resource management in the region. 

For more insights, check out the detailed report on [SIC Notícias](https://sicnoticias.pt/pais/2025-01-03-video-regiao-do-algarve-tem-menos-agua-do-que-em-2024-mas-o-consumo-continua-a-aumentar-832bb07a).

As bacias do Barlavento e do Arade, no Algarve, eram até ao final do ano as que tinham menor disponibilidade de água […] Veja a reportagem na SIC Notícias.

Algarve Faces Water Shortage in 2024 Despite Rising Consumption

### Motorpor's New Facility in Faro

Motorpor has officially opened its new **9,000 square meter** facility in Faro, which will feature a **showroom**, workshops, a collision unit, a parts center, a vehicle logistics center, and soon, a training center. This new space will be home to **seven Stellantis brands**: **FIAT, Abarth, Peugeot, Opel, Citroën, Jeep,** and **DS Automobiles**. 

According to Motorpor, this investment of **€5 million** in the Algarve marks the end of a three-year commitment to the region. CEO **Manuel Coutinho** stated that this investment is a significant milestone in the company's national expansion strategy and reinforces their presence in the Algarve.

![Motorpor's New Facility](https://www.razaoautomovel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Novas-instalacoes-Motorpor-Faro-1.webp)
*© Motorpor - The new facilities will feature a training center in partnership with CEPRA (Automobile Repair Professional Training Center).* 

Motorpor has created **45 new jobs** in the Algarve and plans to expand further into Portimão to meet customer needs. The inauguration event was attended by over **200 guests**, including notable figures from the Algarve and the automotive industry, such as **Rogério Bacalhau**, the Mayor of Faro, and **Pedro Lazarino**, the country manager for Stellantis in Portugal. 

The Secretary of State for Tourism, **Pedro Machado**, sent a congratulatory video message as he could not attend the event.

![Motorpor's New Facility](https://www.razaoautomovel.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Novas-instalacoes-Motorpor-Faro-2.webp)
*© Motorpor - The Motorpor Group currently has 269 employees nationwide and closed 2024 with a turnover of nearly **€100 million**.* 

The opening of the new facility also marks the launch of the first **DS Automobiles** dealership in the Algarve, Stellantis' **premium** automotive brand. To commemorate the occasion, the new **DS Nº8** model was unveiled in Portugal.

### A Space for More Than Just Car Sales

Prior to the inauguration, Motorpor signed a protocol with **CEPRA** to establish a training center for automotive technical skills in the Algarve. Motorpor will provide the facilities and carry out necessary renovations. The first course, focused on body repair, has already commenced and will last for **seven months**.

Manuel Coutinho expressed confidence that this new training center will serve not only Motorpor but also the entire region, providing essential technical skills in a rapidly transforming sector.

O novo espaço da Motorpor irá comercializar sete marcas da Stellantis e vai criar 45 postos de trabalho no Algarve.

Motorpor Unveils €5 Million Investment in Algarve: A New Era for Car Sales and Job Creation

### Touché Amoré Returns to Portugal

This **Tuesday, January 21**, the Californian band **Touché Amoré** will perform a unique concert in Portugal, presenting their new album, *Spiral in a Straight Line*, at **LAV** in Lisbon. The evening will feature the opening act **Trauma Ray**.

![Touché Amoré](https://ruidosonoro.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/10/Touche-Amore-750x400.jpg)

### About the New Album
*Spiral in a Straight Line* was released on **October 11** and showcases the band’s ongoing journey of innovation and reflection within the post-hardcore genre. The album, produced by **Ross Robinson**, includes collaborations with artists **Julien Baker** and **Lou Barlow**. This sixth studio album follows their previous release, *Lament* (2020), and continues to build on their legacy established by acclaimed works like *Parting the Sea Between Brightness and Me* (2011) and *Is Survived By* (2013).

### Opening Act: Trauma Ray
The opening act for the evening, **Trauma Ray**, will present a less aggressive but equally emotional set, blending **shoegaze** and **doom** influences. They will also debut their new track, *Chameleon*.

### Ticket Information
Tickets for this exciting concert are still available for **€23** through [Ticketline](https://ticketline.sapo.pt/evento/touche-amore-87450) and other usual outlets.

### Watch the Visual Album
Check out the visual album for *Spiral in a Straight Line* below:

<iframe title="Touché Amoré - Nobody's (Spiral In A Straight Line Visual Album)" width="750" height="422" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/9kJNSv8jU_w?feature=oembed" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen=""></iframe>

O sexto álbum da banda californiana tem data única de apresentação no LAV com a primeira parte de Trauma Ray.

Touché Amoré Set to Rock Lisbon with Exclusive Album Launch of 'Spiral in a Straight Line'!

**AlCante: A Symbol of Alentejan Diaspora in Lisbon**

The **AlCante** group, a beacon of **Alentejan culture**, has become a vital part of the Alcântara community in Lisbon. Founded in **2015** by **Beatriz Cruz**, who moved from Odemira to Lisbon at 16, this choir revives the deep-rooted traditions of the Alentejo region through song.

![AlCante Choir](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/034-scaled.jpg?fit=1200%2C800&quality=89&ssl=1)
*Photo: Líbia Florentino*

### A Journey of Nostalgia
Beatriz reflects on her past, stating, “I have more of Lisbon than the Alentejo, but my roots are there.” This sentiment resonates with many members who left their rural homes for better opportunities in the city. The choir, consisting of **12 men and 16 women**, aims to preserve their cultural identity while fostering a sense of community.

### The Birth of a Cultural Initiative
In a serendipitous encounter in Grândola, Beatriz and her friends met **José Fernandes**, who became the group's mentor. José, now 71, emphasizes the social impact of AlCante, stating, “For us Alentejans, having cante in the diaspora is crucial. It helps us feel connected.”

![Beatriz Cruz](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/022-scaled.jpg?resize=780%2C531&quality=89&ssl=1)
*Beatriz Cruz founded AlCante. Photo: Líbia Florentino*

### A Community Tradition
Since its inception, AlCante has become an integral part of Alcântara’s identity. They celebrate traditions such as singing **Janeiras** during the New Year, bringing joy to local establishments. Community members, like **Carlos Alves**, express their enthusiasm for the group, recognizing its role in maintaining neighborhood bonds.

### Open to All
AlCante now boasts **60 members** and welcomes anyone interested in joining, regardless of their background. The initiative not only bridges the gap between **Lisbon and Alentejo** but also strengthens community ties through shared cultural experiences.

![Singing in the Streets](https://i0.wp.com/amensagem.pt/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/043.jpg?resize=780%2C510&quality=89&ssl=1)
*The group singing in Lisbon. Photo: Líbia Florentino*

O grupo de cante alentejano AlCante é um símbolo da diáspora Alentejana na capital e é já um grupo indispensável para a comunidade da freguesia de Alcântara.

Discover AlCante: The Heartwarming Alentejan Choir Bringing Tradition to Lisbon

### Former Vice President Takes the Stand

**Patrocínio Azevedo**, the former vice president of **Gaia City Hall**, has been in **preventive detention** since May 2023. This Monday morning, he began his trial along with **15 other defendants**. 

In a critical moment of the proceedings, Azevedo is set to provide his statement this afternoon to the panel of judges, aiming to **assert his innocence**. The case has garnered significant media attention, given the high-profile nature of the individuals involved and the implications for local governance.  

![Patrocínio Azevedo](https://asset.skoiy.com/jnrcnjwljorqgsbu/foco5kvymb3t.jpg?w=1852&q=80&crop=1916,1277,2,0)
*Elad Dror, a prominent defendant in the case. Photo: André Rolo*  

This trial is a pivotal moment in the ongoing legal challenges faced by former public officials in Portugal, reflecting broader concerns about **accountability** and **transparency** in local government.

Patrocínio Azevedo, o ex-vice-presidente da Câmara de Gaia que está em prisão preventiva desde maio de 2023 e que começou na manhã desta segunda-feira a ser julgado com outros 15 arguidos, vai, esta tarde, prestar declarações ao coletivo de juízes para garantir inocência.

Former Vice President of Gaia City Hall Testifies to Prove Innocence Amid Ongoing Trial

### A New Era for Cultural Engagement in Lisbon

Phil Ilic and Chris Wood, the founders of the acclaimed **Cine Society**, have launched **Society Lisboa**, an innovative digital platform dedicated to promoting cultural and entertainment events in the Portuguese capital.

With the aim of connecting local communities to the best that **Lisbon** has to offer, **Society Lisboa** positions itself as a go-to resource for those wishing to explore the city's most vibrant and exclusive cultural experiences.

Currently, the platform boasts over **25,000 subscribers** and serves as a meticulously curated guide. It encompasses a wide range of events including **music**, **cinema**, **art**, and various cultural expressions. Every **Tuesday**, subscribers receive a carefully selected list of events directly in their inbox, featuring a diverse and engaging agenda that reflects the cultural essence of the city.

> “Lisbon is a vibrant and multifaceted city, but the vast cultural offerings can be overwhelming for those searching for the best experiences. **Society Lisboa** emerges as an effective and accessible solution, connecting people to the soul of the city through careful and strategic curation,” say Chris Wood and Phil Ilic, the platform's founders.

With continuous growth, **Society Lisboa** is committed to expanding its presence and solidifying itself as the leading events newsletter in the capital.

> “**Society Lisboa** is more than just a platform. It’s an invitation to rediscover Lisbon and celebrate its cultural diversity, while simplifying access to the experiences that make the city a unique and dynamic destination,” emphasize Chris Wood and Phil Ilic.

Phil Ilic e Chris Wood, fundadores do reconhecido projeto Cine Society, acabam de lançar a Society Lisboa, uma plataforma digital inovadora dedicada à

Discover Society Lisboa: The Digital Hub Connecting You to Lisbon's Cultural Pulse!

### Mayor's Commitment to Safety in Martim Moniz

**Carlos Moedas**, the Mayor of Lisbon, expressed his **willingness** to install surveillance cameras in **Martim Moniz**, contingent on the **Public Security Police (PSP)** deeming it necessary to combat crime in the area. 

"What I advocate is that the **PSP** and the **Ministry of Internal Administration (MAI)** conduct their assessments, and the **CML** is here to execute, because **since the central government hasn’t done so, the CML is installing and paying for these cameras**,” Moedas stated. He emphasized that while the **CML** has already prioritized other areas for camera installation, he is open to adding Martim Moniz if the **PSP** requests it.

### Recent Incident Raises Concerns

Moedas's comments came in light of a **reported sexual assault** involving an Italian student in Martim Moniz. The Mayor highlighted that the **CML** is working on a significant project to enhance safety through the installation of **240 cameras** across various city locations, although **none are currently planned for Martim Moniz due to its non-priority status** given by the MAI.

He reiterated that the **PSP**, being the experts in urban security, should guide these decisions. Moedas has consistently raised concerns about the **increasing violence** in crime execution in Lisbon and the **decrease in police presence**, which has dropped from **8,000 officers in 2010 to 6,700 today**. 

### Ongoing Efforts for Increased Police Visibility

The Mayor is committed to advocating for more **PSP officers** in Lisbon, stating, **“I will continue to fight for more PSP in Lisbon”** to ensure that municipal police can effectively assist in law enforcement. He also noted the importance of police visibility for public safety, especially considering that **over 30% of Lisbon's population** are non-nationals, which he views as a point of pride that necessitates enhanced security measures.

The **investigation** into the assault is being handled by the **Judiciary Police (PJ)**, following a report made by the **PSP** after the incident was reported by the victim.

![Surveillance Cameras](https://static.observador.pt/piano/media/janeiro/toaster/nata2.png)

Apesar de estar prevista a instalação de 240 câmaras de videovigilância em Lisboa, Moedas admitiu que "nenhuma delas está prevista para o Martim Moniz, porque não foi considerado prioritário".

Lisbon Mayor Open to Installing Surveillance Cameras in Martim Moniz After Recent Assault Incident

## Lisbon's Traffic Insights

**Lisbon** is making headlines with its recent ranking in the **TomTom Traffic Index**, which evaluates congestion levels across **500 cities worldwide**. According to the index, the Portuguese capital is the **third best city in the EU** and the **fifth best in the world** for low congestion levels. However, there’s a catch: **Lisbon residents lose an average of 4,740 minutes (or 79 hours) each year** during peak traffic hours.

![Lisbon Traffic](https://media.timeout.com/images/106225776/750/422/image.jpg)
*Image Credit: Flarius/Pixabay*

### Key Statistics

To cover a distance of **10 kilometers in Lisbon**, it takes **23 minutes and 47 seconds**. When comparing other EU capitals, **Luxembourg, Ljubljana,** and **Stockholm** lead the way in terms of the least time lost while traveling that same distance. In terms of peak hour delays, **Valletta, Luxembourg,** and **Bratislava** are the top three cities where residents experience the least traffic.

### Global Traffic Overview

On a global scale, **Mexico City** tops the list as the most congested city in 2024, with a congestion level of **52%**, while **Thousand Oaks** in the USA ranks as the least congested.

### Local Government's Take

In response to these findings, **Carlos Moedas**, the Mayor of Lisbon, views the results as a reflection of a well-balanced urban vision. This follows previous reports highlighting that Lisbon residents lost **60 hours in traffic** over the past year. **Filipe Anacoreta Correia**, the Vice Mayor responsible for Mobility, expressed pride in Lisbon's ranking as one of the top three cities for mobility in Europe, noting that the city has a **26% congestion rate**, which is only surpassed by **Madrid** and **Valletta**.

The city's commitment to improving urban mobility is evidently yielding positive results, as indicated by these statistics.

Resultados de índice mundial mostram que, para percorrer 10 quilómetros em Lisboa, são precisos 23 minutos e 47 segundos.

Algarve Faces Water Shortage in 2024 Despite Rising Consumption

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Other Latest News

Motorpor Unveils €5 Million Investment in Algarve: A New Era for Car Sales and Job Creation

Touché Amoré Set to Rock Lisbon with Exclusive Album Launch of 'Spiral in a Straight Line'!

Discover AlCante: The Heartwarming Alentejan Choir Bringing Tradition to Lisbon

Former Vice President of Gaia City Hall Testifies to Prove Innocence Amid Ongoing Trial

Discover Society Lisboa: The Digital Hub Connecting You to Lisbon's Cultural Pulse!

Lisbon Mayor Open to Installing Surveillance Cameras in Martim Moniz After Recent Assault Incident

Lisbon's Traffic Woes: 4,740 Minutes Lost Annually Yet Ranks 8th in EU for Mobility

Other Latest News

Motorpor Unveils €5 Million Investment in Algarve: A New Era for Car Sales and Job Creation

Touché Amoré Set to Rock Lisbon with Exclusive Album Launch of 'Spiral in a Straight Line'!

Discover AlCante: The Heartwarming Alentejan Choir Bringing Tradition to Lisbon

Former Vice President of Gaia City Hall Testifies to Prove Innocence Amid Ongoing Trial

Discover Society Lisboa: The Digital Hub Connecting You to Lisbon's Cultural Pulse!

Lisbon Mayor Open to Installing Surveillance Cameras in Martim Moniz After Recent Assault Incident

Lisbon's Traffic Woes: 4,740 Minutes Lost Annually Yet Ranks 8th in EU for Mobility