The service, which began 28 years ago, had only ceased operations in 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic, which delayed the public tender process. Now, the termination of the contract with RJ Autocares, the managing company since 2021, due to an accumulated debt of 1.8 million euros, has left the city without this tourist attraction for the upcoming summer season.
“"It is a complex tender, and given the precedents, it must be thoroughly reviewed to avoid further errors."
Municipal sources have indicated that the tender for the new service is complex and requires an exhaustive review to avoid past mistakes, without being able to provide a specific timeline for its implementation. The municipal plenary unanimously approved the termination of the administrative concession on January 26, after the company failed to pay the stipulated annual fee of 450,000 euros. The company's proposal to reduce the fee by 87%, to 60,000 euros, was not accepted by the council.
The temporary loss of the Tourist Train, which transported an average of 100,000 passengers annually, has generated concern among the business, commercial, and hospitality sectors of the city. Representatives from these sectors have expressed their disappointment and urged the City Council to reinstate the service.
“"It is a very comfortable way for tourists to visit the city."
The president of Pimec Comerç Tarragona highlighted that the train is not only a tourist attraction but also a tool that structures visits to the city, connecting heritage, commercial areas, and restaurants. Its absence could particularly affect less central commercial areas. Meanwhile, the president of the Chamber of Commerce lamented that the city will miss an opportunity during a season expected to feature many events and the arrival of cruise passengers.
