Metropolitan BRT begins assisted operation and integrates mobility between municipalities of Greater Belém
Agility, comfort, and savings mark the start of the new integrated system that connects Santa Izabel, Benevides, Marituba, Ananindeua, and Belém
The Government of Pará began, this Saturday (1st), the assisted operation of the Integrated Metropolitan Transport System (Metropolitan BRT), which marks the gradual implementation phase of the new public transport model in the Metropolitan Region of Belém. In this initial stage, the system operates with three trunk lines and four feeder lines, connecting the municipalities of Santa Izabel, Benevides, Marituba, Ananindeua, and Belém.
According to the State Secretary of Infrastructure and Logistics, Adler Silveira, the system represents a historic advancement in the integration of public transport.
“We started today the assisted operation of the Metropolitan BRT, a project delivered by the State Government, and we already have buses circulating from the terminals of Marituba and Ananindeua to the center of Belém. The single fare of R$ 4.60 ensures lower costs for travel, with reduced travel time and more comfort for users who use the BRT express corridor along BR-316.”
The State Public Services Regulation and Control Agency of Pará (Arcon) coordinates the implementation of the service with the BRT Amazônia concessionaires, which operate the lines, terminals, stations, and garage, and Autopass, responsible for the digital ticketing system. Arcon's actions ensure the quality, safety, and efficiency standards in the operation of the new system.
Comfort, safety, and development
The Metropolitan BRT is the largest mobility project ever executed in the Metropolitan Region of Belém and will directly benefit more than two million residents of Pará. The new buses are equipped with air conditioning, Wi-Fi, and environmentally friendly technology. In addition to ensuring speed and comfort, the system stimulates urban development and enhances the areas near the express corridor of BR-316.
At the Marituba Terminal, caregiver Jéssica Lima approved the experience on the first day of commuting to work on the new modal. She was the first user to purchase the ticket for access to the platforms via QR Code. “The Metropolitan Region was very lacking in transport, and with the BRT we will have more agility to get home and also with the safety of a comfortable bus,” she stated.
Inside the ticket booth, ticket seller Bruna Braun dos Santos celebrated her first day at the new job. “It is very satisfying to know that we are providing great transport for the population. We have already started to recharge the Pra Já card and sell tickets,” said the Marituba resident.
Bruna is among the 200 professionals involved in the assisted operation, which includes ticketing, maintenance, and operation areas. Driver Jean Rocha, with 21 years of experience, reinforces the team's enthusiasm. “It is an unprecedented system in the Metropolitan Region and has everything to succeed. These first trips are important for adjustments, and users are getting used to it,” he stated.
To guide passengers, Arcon reinforced the teams with 150 interns. Among them is 17-year-old Henrique Souza, who participated in the system's first trips. “It is a novelty for us and for the population. We have already assisted with passenger boarding and helped direct those arriving at the terminals,” said the student. Check the complete routes of the lines.
Modernization and digital ticketing
With the Metropolitan BRT, the Government of Pará modernizes public transport by implementing the Pra Já digital ticketing system, available through a physical card and the Pra Já Metropolitano app, already available for Android and soon for iOS.
The cards are being issued free of charge at the Marituba and Ananindeua terminals. To obtain the benefit, users must present an ID, CPF, and proof of residence. Students must also present proof of enrollment, and people with disabilities must provide a medical report.
During the first days, passengers will be able to temporarily use cards from other transport systems to ensure their right to free or reduced fare. In the Metropolitan BRT, free rides are guaranteed for the elderly, people with disabilities, and active agents. On Sundays and holidays, the fare is free for all users.
Public servant Tayná Guedes, a resident of Ananindeua, was one of the first to secure the new Pra Já card.
“It was faster than I imagined. They issued it on the spot. I liked the card because getting on the bus with cash and waiting for change disrupts the trip. It is more practical and safe this way. Besides, I will save time and even R$ 700 in fuel per month. I am excited to switch to the system and leave the car at home,” said Tayná, also highlighting the environmental aspect of the new transport model.
