Free Public Transit Proposal Fuels Debate Over Brazil‘s Subway Expansion Plans
BRASÍLIA, Brazil – A recent proposal to eliminate fares on Brazil’s public transportation systems is sparking renewed discussion about the future of rail projects across the country, even as passenger numbers continue to recover from pandemic-era declines. The debate comes ahead of the 2026 presidential election,raising the political stakes for current President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva and his Workers’ Party (PT).
While Brazil’s rail passenger transport still faces a significant deficit, several key subway projects are underway, especially in the populous state of São Paulo. Despite a gradual increase in ridership, levels haven’t returned to pre-COVID-19 figures, impacted by social distancing and the growth of remote work.
The zero-fare concept carries significant ancient weight in Brazilian politics. In 2013, protests ignited by bus fare increases in multiple cities broadened to encompass wider issues of corruption and ultimately contributed to the political turmoil that led to the impeachment of then-President Dilma Rousseff, also of the PT. Analysts believe the current proposal is strategically timed ahead of the October 2026 elections, when Brazilians will vote for president, governors, deputies, and senators.
Beyond the political considerations, concrete investments are being made in rail infrastructure. The federal government, through the Ministry of Cities, recently authorized the second phase of revitalization and modernization for the Teresina subway in the state of Piauí. The project,totaling 351.2 million reais (US$65 million), will see 237.9 million reais funded by the federal government and 113.3 million reais contributed by the state. Key improvements include the addition of three new stations – Piçarra, São João, and Mafuá – alongside the refurbishment of existing stations and the construction of a new bridge over the Poti River. The project also encompasses sealing the entire line, lowering Avenida Higino Cunha, building a railway viaduct, and redeveloping areas surrounding the stations. The Teresina metro, originally inaugurated in 1990 with an incomplete design, aims to offer a more efficient service with these upgrades.
In Minas Gerais, the state government reports that expansion work on the Belo Horizonte subway’s Line 1 is 85% complete and slated for completion in January 2026. Line 2 is projected to be finished by 2028, adding 10.5 kilometers of track and seven new stations. The Belo Horizonte subway currently operates under a concession regime.
