Since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted in Spain, many people wonder if this has affected the use of buses. In this article, we will explore the impact on public transportation, particularly on bus usage.

The lifting of the mask requirement in public transportation took place on April 19, 2022, after the accumulated incidence of COVID-19 in Spain significantly decreased and a high vaccination rate was achieved. The measure was implemented nationwide, but each region had the possibility to maintain the mandatory use of masks in their public transportation if deemed necessary.

A month after this measure, many wonder if there has been an increase in bus usage in Spain. Although reports are contradictory, some suggest that the number of people using buses has increased since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted.

For example, according to a report from Europa Press, the Municipal Transportation Company (EMT) in Valencia has experienced an 8% increase in the number of bus passengers since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted. Additionally, the number of people using the metro has also increased in Valencia since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted.

And in Madrid, has the number of users decreased?

On the other hand, in the city of Madrid, the number of people using buses has decreased since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted. According to a report from the news agency EFE, the public transportation company in Madrid (EMT) has reported a 5% decrease in the number of bus passengers since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted. Additionally, the number of people using the metro has also decreased in Madrid since the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was lifted.

Why are these numbers different? Although it is difficult to determine a definitive cause, it is possible that the increase in bus usage in Valencia is due to passengers feeling more comfortable using public transportation without masks, which could have led to an increased demand for transportation services. On the other hand, in Madrid, the decrease in the number of people using public transportation could be due to concerns about the increase in COVID-19 cases in the region in recent weeks.

It is important to note that despite the lifting of the mandatory use of masks in public transportation, their use is still recommended. The measure to lift the mandatory use of masks in public transportation was taken to encourage people to return to using public transportation, which would contribute to economic recovery and the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions.

However, it is also important to remember that the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over, and the risk of virus transmission continues, so it is important to continue taking precautions.