Summary:
Carlos Macedo, union representative, questions the need for a new signaling system.
The new system cost €136 million and was approved in 2021.
The Ministry of Infrastructure calls issues "isolated situations" and expresses confidence in resolution.
TSF continues to seek answers from the Metro administration without success.
Concerns Over New Signaling System
In an interview with TSF, Carlos Macedo, a union representative for Metro workers, expressed confusion over the company's decision to replace the previous signaling system, which he believes was functioning adequately. He stated, "The signaling that the Metro has always had, with the old method, was a reliable system that met all necessary safety requirements for train circulation and allowed for closer spacing. The new signaling system, in our view, does not make much sense at this time."
Investment and Modernization
The implementation of the new signaling system cost a staggering €136 million, as noted on the company's website. The modernization proposal was approved in 2021 during a Council of Ministers meeting, with João Pedro Matos Fernandes, the then Minister of Environment, overseeing the initiative.
Government's Response
The Ministry of Infrastructure has stated that the failures in the Lisbon Metro's signaling are merely "isolated situations." In a written response to TSF, the Ministry mentioned that they have been monitoring the situation and expressed confidence in the Metropolitano de Lisboa to address the recent issues on the lines, emphasizing that the network has been making significant efforts to expand and improve services for citizens.
Ongoing Inquiries
In recent days, TSF has sought explanations from the Lisbon Metro administration but has not yet received a response.
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