- Orihuela’s urban bus service contract expires in November 2025, putting rural area transport at risk.
- The local government is awaiting an urgent contract extension from the Generalitat Valenciana.
- Socialist council members warn of potential service disappearance if no extension is granted.
- City officials insist they are taking steps to maintain uninterrupted transport services.
- Key areas served include Hurchillo, Arneva, La Aparecida, Rincón de Bonanza, Molins, Montepinar, and La Matanza.
Orihuela’s Urban Transport Service Faces Immediate Uncertainty
As the urban transport contract for Orihuela’s rural districts nears expiration this November, concerns are mounting over the continuity of public bus services. The Generalitat Valenciana has yet to grant the necessary contract extension to the Orihuela City Council, putting local transport services at risk for thousands of residents across seven key areas.
Current Situation: Awaiting the Generalitat’s Decision
As the contract’s emergency awarding last year, the urban transport service, which connects the pedanías (rural districts) of Hurchillo, Arneva, La Aparecida, Rincón de Bonanza, Molins, Montepinar, and la matanza, has depended on temporary agreements. According to the Socialist group in the city council,this contract will expire in November 2025,and the Generalitat has yet to grant the one-year extension that would prevent service interruption.
carolina Gracia, the socialist spokesperson, expressed in a recent press conference that the situation poses a “real risk” of ceasing transport services for these districts. She criticized the local government’s slow progress and insisted that the city council must prepare emergency measures to avoid a transport blackout.
City Council’s response and Plans
In contrast, Víctor Sigüenza, Orihuela’s Transport councillor, denied alarmist statements about an imminent disappearance of the service. He confirmed that the council has officially requested the contract extension from the Generalitat and is currently working on the new Public Transport Service Project, which is still in the consultation phase.
Sigüenza reassured residents, emphasizing that “the transport service will not be lost,” and highlighted the ongoing coordination efforts to ensure continuity for affected neighborhoods well beyond the current contract’s end date.
Political Dispute Over Handling of the Transport Crisis
The Socialist group points to inadequate foresight from the current governing coalition (PP and Vox), arguing they have neglected to advance the transport service project despite knowing the Generalitat’s funding withdrawal was imminent.
Carolina Gracia stated, “it’s hard to beleive that with two years’ notice, more concrete measures weren’t taken to safeguard these transport lines.” She warned that failing to secure the contract extension or take emergency action would leave rural residents without vital urban transport before the end of this governance’s term.
Urban Transport in Orihuela: Key Facts
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Service Area | Hurchillo, Arneva, La Aparecida, Rincón de Bonanza, Molins, Montepinar, La Matanza |
| Contract Start | Emergency award in 2024 |
| Contract Expiration | November 2025 |
| Responsible Authorities | Orihuela City Council & Generalitat Valenciana |
| Current Status | Contract extension requested; new service project in consultation |
What This Means for Orihuela Residents
- Potential disruption of bus services in rural districts after November 2025.
- The city council urges the Generalitat to approve a contract extension promptly.
- Residents should stay informed about updates on the Public Transport Service Project.
- Local government officials are committed to maintaining continuous transport coverage.
Looking Forward
The situation remains fluid as Orihuela’s government and the Generalitat Valenciana continue negotiations. The outcome will directly affect daily commutes and mobility for thousands of residents in Orihuela’s rural districts. Local citizens are encouraged to watch for official announcements and engage with community representatives to ensure their transport needs are prioritized.
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Article credit: A.T., La Verdad (2025)