Residents Demand Regulation to Curb Delivery Rider Gatherings in Lisbon Neighborhood

Petition for Regulation in Chelas

Residents and workers near the Chelas metro station are expressing their concerns about the persistent gatherings of delivery riders, which they claim have caused significant harm to the community. A petition is circulating among locals and merchants, urging the Lisbon City Council, the Marvila Parish Council, and local police to take action.

The petitioners are asking for five urgent measures to alleviate the issues caused by these delivery platforms:

1. Creation of a specific regulation for public space occupation by delivery platforms, including a ban on gatherings in residential and commercial areas.
2. Implementation of regulated waiting zones for delivery riders, situated away from residential and commercial zones.
3. Increased enforcement of public space occupation and parking regulations, particularly near the metro station.
4. Measures to limit noise emissions during the night.
5. Provision of adequate sanitation facilities for the riders.

The petition highlights problems in the Amendoeiras Neighborhood of Chelas, particularly along Avenida Doutor Augusto de Castro and Rua Engenheiro Rodrigues de Carvalho. Residents have reported safety concerns due to the constant, often high-speed movement of motorcycles and bicycles, and the noise generated by both vehicles and conversations among riders. Additionally, sidewalks are being blocked, making it difficult for other residents and workers to navigate.

Local merchants have reported a decline in revenue, which they attribute to the concentration of delivery riders, and have raised issues regarding non-customers using their restroom facilities without purchasing anything.