Portugal Braces for Major Disruptions as general Strike Looms
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A nationwide general strike is set to significantly disrupt transportation and daily life across Portugal beginning this Wednesday, with major impacts expected in Lisbon and surrounding areas. The strike,fueled by widespread discontent over the government’s proposed labor reforms,is anticipated to cause widespread disruptions to rail and metro services,as well as notable traffic congestion in the capital.
Railway Services to Face Significant Cuts
CP,Portugal’s national railway operator,has warned of disruptions beginning Wednesday in anticipation of Thursday’s strike. The company has published a list of minimum services for its various lines, including Alfa Pendular, Intercidades, Regional, interregional, International, and urban trains serving Porto, Coimbra, and Lisbon. CP has made the complete schedule of guaranteed services available on its website.
According to a company release, passengers holding tickets for long-distance or regional services are eligible for a full refund or a free change to another train in the same category and class.This process can be completed online via the “Your tickets” area on the myCP platform up to 15 minutes before departure, or in person at ticket offices. For those missing the deadline, refund requests can be submitted up to 10 days after the strike concludes, utilizing the online “Refund for Delay or Suppression” form and including a scan of the original ticket.
Lisbon Metro to Halt All Service
The Lisbon Metropolitano announced a complete suspension of service between 6:30 a.m. on Thursday and 1 a.m. on Friday. All stations will remain closed during this period, with normal operations resuming at 6:30 a.m. on December 12th. Unlike CP, the Arbitration Court of the Economic and Social Council unanimously decided against establishing minimum services for the Metro, a decision the company plans to appeal, citing a “notably serious impact” on mobility within the Lisbon Metropolitan Area.
The broader strike action is expected to impact 15 districts, and also the Azores and Madeira.The government’s proposed labor reforms,encompassing over 100 articles,address key areas such as parenting,dismissals,contractual deadlines,and the definition of sectors subject to minimum service requirements.
Lisbon Traffic Restrictions Anticipated
The PSP (Public Security Police) is preparing for significant traffic constraints in Lisbon, reinforcing its presence on major access roads to maintain traffic flow and ensure the safety of those needing to travel. A large parade is planned in the city center on Thursday afternoon, requiring the PSP to prioritize the constitutional right to assembly and presentation while safeguarding people and property.
Authorities are advising citizens to avoid the demonstration area, as several key arteries will be closed to traffic starting at 2 p.m. on Thursday. The following locations will be affected:
- D. Pedro IV Square
- Rua do Carmo
- Garrett Street
- Serpa Pinto Street
- travessa da Trindade
- Rua Nova da Trindade
- Largo do Chiado
- Luís de Camões Square
- Loreto Street
- Calçada do Combro
- Rua dos Poiais de São bento
- Calçada da Estrela
- Rua de correia Garção
The widespread disruptions underscore the potential for significant challenges for commuters and travelers throughout Portugal as the strike unfolds.
