The Battle for Bus Stops in Lisbon: Activists Push for Seating Amid Controversy

The Return of Benches to Fontes Pereira de Melo

After months of public criticism regarding the replacement of bus shelters in Lisbon, the group Infraestrutura Pública took action. They installed chairs at a bus stop that previously only had backrests, prompting JCDecaux to respond by installing benches overnight. Activist Marta remarked, "If they replaced them so quickly, it’s because they have the means to do it easily, and they recognize the previous setup was wrong."

Image Credits: DR/Infraestrutura Pública

Citizens' Concerns

Public dissatisfaction has been mounting due to issues such as advertising noise, poor lighting, and ineffective shelter against the rain and wind. The lack of seating in several shelters has been a major point of contention. In a recent protest on January 23, Infraestrutura Pública placed chairs at a bus stop, which were swiftly removed by JCDecaux, who cited that these installations were part of "improvement works" by the city council.

More Than 30 Shelters Without Seats

Marta highlighted that over 30 bus shelters in the city currently lack seating, despite the fact that many of these shelters once had benches. JCDecaux claims that only 2% of new shelters are without seats, yet Marta argues that the conditions have worsened rather than improved. "This fight for bus stops isn't over," she insisted.

Accessibility Issues

The city’s mayor, Carlos Moedas, justified the absence of benches by citing narrow sidewalks that would impede wheelchair access. However, activists argue that removing benches is not a solution; instead, they call for wider sidewalks to accommodate all citizens, especially the elderly and disabled.

Image Credits: DR/Infraestrutura Pública

On January 23, the chairs remained at the shelter for three hours before being removed by JCDecaux staff. Marta noted, "Those people were just sitting there, waiting for the bus."