### “Tiburón Urbano” Sparks Controversy: Allegations of Discrimination and Illegality
The XVII Administration of La Paz, led by Mayor Milena Quiroga Romero, unveiled a new transportation system named “Tiburón Urbano” for the capital city. This initiative, aimed at improving mobility rights and modernizing La Paz’s transit system, has been met with criticism from activists and concession leaders who claim it is discriminatory and unfair.
Juan Manuel Olachea, the leader of the Movement for Respect and Inclusion Rights for People with Disabilities, alleges that none of the 20 buses currently in operation have ramps or other legally required accommodations for disabled individuals. Activists feel betrayed, having been promised inclusive transport options by city officials for over a year.
“Milena Quiroga and Osiris del Carmen promised us inclusive buses, but all we got were empty words,” says Olachea. Despite promises, the buses arrived without the necessary ramps. He recently won a legal amparo against the municipality and the state government for lack of accessibility in public transit, outlining multiple instances of discrimination and legal non-compliance.
Olachea recalls that the 2014 State Transportation Act mandated that 80% of public buses be adapted for disabled accessibility within six years—a goal not achieved by former governor Carlos Mendoza Davis or the current administration under Víctor Castro Cosío.
Olachea stresses that the law is on his side, backed by a court ruling and a decision from the Baja California Sur State Human Rights Commission. Yet, he expresses frustration at the authorities’ non-compliance.
### Transport Sector Outraged Over “Tiburón Urbano”
(Photo: Courtesy)
Concessioned transport operators are also protesting “Tiburón Urbano,” calling it an unfair competition due to its pricing and illegality under the State Transportation Law. Pedro Enrique López, a sector leader, indicates that legal action is forthcoming due to encroachment on existing routes. While the new system has not yet significantly impacted their business, López urges cautious vigilance.
The new transport system employs electronic payment cards and offers a tiered pricing model, which traditional operators say they cannot compete with. They also allege corruption in the handling of the new system.
Mayor Milena Quiroga defends “Tiburón Urbano,” emphasizing the importance of addressing user complaints about service quality. She asserts that the transport operators were involved in planning but often declined participation. Anticipating the addition of 10 more buses by the end of 2024, the mayor sidestepped questions about the total investment cost.
### Additional Updates on Transportation Controversy
#### Disruption of Bus Services Affecting Residents
A parallel issue impacting La Paz residents is the reduction of bus services in various neighborhoods. This has further fueled public discontent and grievances about transportation inefficiencies.
#### Legal Battles on Multiple Fronts
As cases like Olachea’s gain traction, more legal battles concerning transportation rights and inclusivity are expected. The outcomes of these legal confrontations could have widespread implications for transportation policy in the region.
Stay tuned to TJGringo.com for continuous updates on this developing story and other local news.
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