São Paulo, Brazil, is implementing changes to its traffic regulations in light of the upcoming Carnival celebrations. Effective from March 3 until March 5, 2025, the municipal vehicle rotation system will be suspended. This decision aims to facilitate easier travel for residents and visitors participating in the festive season.
Secretary of Mobility and Traffic Gilmar Pereira Miranda expressed the importance of this measure, stating, "A medida foi publicada no Diário Oficial em portaria da Secretaria Executiva de Mobilidade e Trânsito (SEMTRA)." This announcement is aimed at alleviating congestion expected during one of the city's major cultural events.
During this period, vehicles with standard license plates will not be restricted from operating within the city, which is especially significant as citizens and tourists flock to numerous events and celebrations dedicated to Carnival. The suspension applies to regular cars, whereas restrictions on heavier vehicles will still be enforced. Heavy vehicle restrictions, including the Zone of Maximum Truck Circulation (ZMRC), remain unaffected during these celebrations.
The vehicle rotation system typically limits the circulation of light vehicles based on license plate numbers, particularly affecting the Centro Expandido and areas within the Minianel Viário. For example, under normal circumstances, vehicles with plates ending in 1 and 2 are restricted on Mondays, and other specific patterns are followed throughout the week. The restrictions typically apply during peak hours: from 7 AM to 10 AM, and 5 PM to 8 PM.
Notably, adjustments have also been made for the Carnival celebration. The Zona de Máxima Restrição aos Fretados (ZMRF), which typically restricts shuttle buses, will be temporarily lifted for the duration of March 3 and 4, allowing more flexibility for public transportation during the festivities. A spokesperson from Companhia de Engenharia de Tráfego (CET) affirmed this change, stating, "A Zona de Máxima Restrição aos Fretados (ZMRF) estará liberada hoje e amanhã, retornando na Quarta-feira de Cinzas." This indicates how municipal authorities are proactively adapting to event-driven changes to improve public movement.
Additional traffic adjustments include allowing vehicles to use exclusive bus lanes on Tuesday of Carnival, March 4, to reduce congestion. Free public parking within the Zona Azul will also be active on this day, provided there are no specific regulations requiring the use of digital parking cards. These measures collectively aim to ease the hustle and bustle typically associated with the city's vibrant Carnival atmosphere.
While the suspension of the vehicle rotation may present logistical ease for many, it also puts emphasis on the need for responsible and careful driving practices. Motorists are reminded of the existing regulations for heavy vehicles and other restrictions, with fines for disorderly conduct remaining consistent at R$ 130.16 along with points assessed to driver's licenses for infractions.
The purpose of such regulations is to quell traffic flow and maximize safety, particularly at times when streets are likely to be crowded with pedestrians and festive gatherings. “O objetivo é reduzir o trânsito na capital paulista,” said Miranda, underlining the city's commitment to maintaining order during the heightened celebratory time.
Upon the conclusion of Carnival, the vehicle rotation ordinance will resume on March 6, returning to its normal operation patterns. This reinstatement reflects São Paulo's effort to balance festive joy with everyday traffic management, ensuring the safe and effective movement of all vehicles within the city's busy urban fabric.
Residents and visitors alike can look forward to enjoying the vibrancy of Carnival without the usual vehicle constraints, enhancing the celebratory atmosphere throughout the city over these special days.