Cádiz public buses struggle with aging fleet as new service tender set for July 29

The municipal bus operator in Cádiz is facing widespread service problems attributed to an aging vehicle fleet. Passengers report broken air‑conditioning, water leaks and overcrowded interiors, especially during the summer surge in demand and tourism. Recent measures – a reduced fare of €0.42 per trip and free rides for riders under 16 – have increased ridership, but the outdated fleet cannot consistently meet the higher demand.

A public tender to select a new concessionaire for the city’s bus network is scheduled to be discussed in a council plenary on 29 July. Officials hope the new contract will replace the deteriorating vehicles and improve reliability, marking what some locals view as the last or penultimate summer with the current inadequate service.

The ongoing issues have been highlighted on social media, showing multiple buses stranded at stops, malfunctioning climate control systems and interior water spills. The city’s transport authority has noted that while some lines see modest summer frequency increases, overall service frequency and vehicle condition remain insufficient.