Anaga Rural Park at Breaking Point
The Socialist Group in Tenerife’s Cabildo has demanded urgent action to prevent traffic collapse in Anaga Rural Park, a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. In a plenary session question submitted for Friday, they criticized the governing coalition (CC and PP) for failing to address worsening congestion, particularly on weekends and holidays.
Residents Struggle With Daily Gridlock
Councillor Javier Rodríguez revealed that neighborhood associations filed a formal complaint on June 13, highlighting severe mobility issues. “Tourist overcrowding, inadequate public transport, and lack of planning are making Anaga unlivable,” Rodríguez stated. Locals reportedly waste hours in traffic queues just to enter or leave their neighborhoods during peak times.
Safety Concerns and Broken Promises
The PSOE warns that emergency vehicle access could be compromised, creating life-threatening risks. Rodríguez condemned unfulfilled Cabildo promises: “Residents have heard countless commitments without seeing real action.” The Socialists now demand a concrete strategy prioritizing public transport and carpooling, with restrictions on non-resident vehicles.
Clashing Solutions for a Fragile Ecosystem
While the PSOE proposes park-and-ride hubs in La Laguna with shuttle services, the island government under President Rosa Dávila controversially plans to eliminate tourist buses and build a parking lot at Cruz del Carmen. Critics argue this would exacerbate congestion by encouraging more private vehicles into the protected area.
Call for Sustainable Balance
The Socialist Group urges the Cabildo to collaborate with residents and businesses, advocating for solutions that protect Anaga’s unique environment while supporting local livelihoods. They emphasize the need for sustainable planning that reconciles tourism, conservation, and community needs in this biodiverse hotspot.
