Students protest in Manaus over suspension of free transit passes

Students from public and higher education institutions have begun camping at the Legislative Assembly of the State of Amazonas (Aleam) to demand the immediate reinstatement of the student free transit pass (passe livre) in Manaus.

The mobilization, organized by the State Union of Students of Amazonas (UEE-AM), follows the suspension of the benefit by the Syndicate of Passenger Transport Companies of the State of Amazonas (Sinetram). Protesters argue that the lack of free transportation prevents students facing financial difficulties from attending classes and preparing for major exams.

In response to the crisis, the Amazonas Judiciary issued a decision ordering Sinetram to restore the student benefit. The court established a daily fine of R$ 50,000 for non-compliance, which could reach a total of R$ 1 million. State Deputy Joana Darc has also called for greater transparency regarding Sinetram's public transport cost spreadsheets to resolve the ongoing impasse.