Rio de Janeiro candidates propose metro expansion amid fiscal crisis

Rio de Janeiro gubernatorial candidates Eduardo Paes (PSD) and Douglas Ruas (PL) have both pledged to expand the state's metro system if elected. Paes proposed expanding Line 2 to Praça XV and creating Line 3 via a submerged tunnel under Guanabara Bay to connect to Niterói. He also expressed intent to integrate ticketing systems and reduce fare prices. Ruas noted an existing expansion project for Line 3, developed by UFRJ, suggesting construction could begin in 2028 following the project's completion in late 2027.

Beyond infrastructure, the next governor will inherit significant fiscal challenges, including a projected R$ 13 billion deficit in the first year and a public debt nearing R$ 200 billion. Both candidates support the state's recent adherence to the Propag program, which aims to provide financial relief by reducing monthly payments to the federal government and adjusting interest rate corrections. To manage this, the state is expected to implement a spending cap through new fiscal responsibility legislation.