Medellín weighs Ayacucho Tram closures after hundreds of disruptions caused by encroachment

Medellín is considering controlled closures along the Ayacucho Tram corridor after repeated invasions of the tram’s exclusive lane and surrounding pedestrian space.

The issue was examined during Accidental Commission 290 of the Medellín City Council, coordinated by councillor Luis Guillermo Vélez. Motorcycles, private cars and loading trucks regularly enter the reserved corridor, while businesses occupy sidewalks with tables, chairs and displays. The problem is especially concentrated between the Bicentenario and Miraflores stations, where pedestrian movement has been seriously restricted.

The infrastructure was designed exclusively for tram operations and safe pedestrian circulation. However, officials said weak enforcement has led to hundreds of operational interruptions and the loss of large amounts of service time since 2015.

Representatives of Metro de Medellín expressed concern about more accidents linked to reckless motorcycle riding, scooter users, pedestrian incidents and encounters involving homeless people. Road safety meetings and educational campaigns have not stopped the deterioration, while inspections and operations by security and public-space authorities have failed to curb the illegal occupation.

The commission proposed evaluating controlled lane closures, installing physical barriers and using permanent joint operations by the Mobility Secretariat and the National Police. The measures are intended to restore order before more serious accidents occur. Vélez also warned that the situation could set a dangerous precedent for future mass-transit projects, including the Metro Ligero de la 80.