Traffic increases 40% in Madrid; free buses on September 7 and 8

Mayor Almeida reports a substantial rise in urban mobility, still below usual levels, and announces free EMT service to ease the return.

Aerial view of traffic in Madrid on the first working day of September.
IA

Aerial view of traffic in Madrid on the first working day of September.

Traffic in the Spanish capital has seen a notable 40% increase this Tuesday, the first working day of September, although it has not yet reached usual levels.

The city of Madrid registered an approximate 40% increase in traffic this Tuesday compared to the previous week. This rise coincides with the end of summer holidays and the beginning of September, although circulation remains below the usual figures for a working day.
The capital's mayor, José Luis Martínez-Almeida, detailed that the increase is substantial compared to the prior week but still lower than the average for a normal workday. The statement was made when asked about the city's mobility following the summer period and ahead of the new school year.
To manage the anticipated increase in mobility, the Municipal Transport Company (EMT Madrid) will offer free service on September 7 and 8. According to the mayor, this measure aims to facilitate the return to work and classrooms, as well as promote public transport use during a critical period for urban mobility.

"We want public transport, and especially buses, to continue being the central piece of mobility in the city of Madrid."

José Luis Martínez-Almeida · Mayor of Madrid
Almeida also highlighted the success of previously implemented free service days by the City Council, noting that the EMT is achieving "historic user records" in the capital.