Ricco Transportes e Turismo, which has been operating buses in Rio Branco for four years, has had its emergency contract renewed for an additional six months. This renewal means that the company remains the sole provider of public transportation in the Acrean capital. The announcement was made by the communication advisory of the Rio Branco City Hall on Friday, confirming the continuation of a critical service for residents of the area.

The new agreement anticipates an annual financial impact of R$ 12.4 million for the years 2026 and 2027, which represents the difference of R$ 1 for each passenger transported throughout the year. This renewal follows a previous extension in August 2025, after which a new signature had not been formalized, leaving the previous contract expired since February 10. The projected amount takes into account a significant 38% increase in the subsidy approved by the City Council in September 2025, wherein municipal lawmakers authorized an increase in the fare subsidy per passenger from R$ 2.63 to R$ 3.63.

The reliance on Ricco Transportes e Turismo signifies a substantial commitment to maintaining public transportation in the region, but the raising costs and increments in passenger subsidies also raise concerns about the financial sustainability and accessibility of public transport services. Local authorities face scrutiny over their decisions regarding public contracts and how these affect the local population, especially regarding future transport options and potential bidders in an area facing operational challenges such as this.