São Paulo is set to increase its public transportation fares for both municipal and intermunicipal services starting January 6, 2025, as confirmed by the state government. The adjustments will see the average fare for intermunicipal lines managed by the Empresa Metropolitana de Transportes Urbanos (EMTU) rise by approximately 4%, reflecting increasing operational costs.
The fare hikes come at a time when the inflation rate has been projected at 5.09%, slightly higher than the increases. For example, the lowest fare within the Greater São Paulo metropolitan region will change from R$ 3.80 to R$ 3.95, with the highest fare for common services increasing to R$ 11.45. Executive bus services, including the Airport Service, will now charge R$ 65.05.
Mayor Ricardo Nunes highlighted the importance of keeping São Paulo’s fares competitive, asserting, "São Paulo has the most affordable tariffs among the cities in the Metropolitan Region and is one of the cheapest nationwide, especially considering the ability for passengers to use the Bilhete Único system, which allows for multiple bus transfers." He emphasized the administration's effort to keep fare increases under inflation levels, citing the previous tariffs had remained unchanged since January 2020.
According to the state government, the adjustments emerged from rising costs linked to maintenance, fuel, labor, and infrastructure necessary to modernize and sustain the public transport system. The EMTU oversees over 900 lines across five metropolitan regions within the state, including Baixada Santista, Campinas, Sorocaba, and Vale do Paraíba.
Specifically, the new fare structure is detailed by each line, varying based on the distance traveled and type of service offered—common, selective, or special. For example, the integration fare for EMTU buses and CPTM trains will increase, with adjustments reaching approximately R$ 8.65 for line 10 Turquesa at the Rio Grande da Serra station.
State authorities are emphasizing the necessity for these changes to maintain high service standards amid rising operational costs. "The fare adjustment was necessary to balance operational accounts and assure quality transport services," stated officials. Despite the increase, the government aims to promote efficiency and modernization within the public transport sector.
Public reactions are anticipated, particularly among commuters already bearing the burden of economic pressures. Concerns over the potential for increased reliance on alternative transport options may arise, as many residents navigate the already challenging economic environment. Some advocacy groups are expected to voice concerns over continuous fare increases, arguing for investments aimed at improving public transport accessibility instead of merely adjusting costs for users.
Looking at regional disparities, the adjustments will impact various municipalities differently, with some regions likely feeling the brunt of the increases more severely than others. The state government is preparing for increased dialogue with the public to address concerns and balance the needs of transportation users with the operational realities of delivering services.
These upcoming changes reflect broader patterns observed not only within São Paulo but across various metropolitan areas throughout Brazil, where rising costs and economic pressures compel transport authorities to rethink their pricing models. The successful implementation of this fare change will hinge on the public's acceptance and the management's ability to show tangible improvements in service quality stemming from these adjustments.