The unions, led by the Coordinator of Port Authorities (CAP), have issued a serious warning about the "collapse" that the site is suffering, pointing to significant deficiencies in infrastructure and services, as well as overcrowding that affects both daily operations and the working and safety conditions of staff.
A historic volume and a constant flow
During March, the port exceeded 50.000 trucks in just 30 days, which represents more than 440 trucks per hour and over 600.000 annually, figures that consolidate Algeciras as a key enclave for intercontinental trade. However, this volume has exceeded operational capacity, causing a “permanent wear and tear” among the Port Police workers and a work experience classified as "untenable".
"We're not facing one-off peaks. It's a constant, unremitting flow that has overwhelmed both infrastructure and personnel." denounced by CAP.
Infrastructure at its limit and precarious conditions
Unions point to the lack of adequate parking spaces for trucks, with paved areas in poor condition and lacking basic services such as restrooms or rest areas, which negatively impacts the well-being of truck drivers, many of whom spend hours or even days waiting to board. Furthermore, the lack of up-to-date information on ferry schedules to Tangier Med forces drivers to arrive at the scheduled time without prior confirmation, creating long lines and waiting without logistical support.
From Coordinator they explain: "The road surface is deteriorating, there are no adequate restrooms or services, which leads to a widespread deterioration of the environment and the well-being of truck drivers."
Port Police overwhelmed and lack of response
The Port Police has declared itself overcrowded, with extremely demanding workdays and restrictions on permits and rest periods during key dates, which has generated concern and discontent among its members. The union reports that the Port Authority of the Bay of Algeciras (APBA) has not taken decisive measures to alleviate this situation, limiting itself to “hide the trucks in less visible places” instead of reinforcing staff or presenting an effective plan.
From the union section of Coordinadora they demand: "The situation is unsustainable and there is no explanation, even more so when the port competes directly with Tangier Med and other Mediterranean ports."
Union demands and proposals
Given this situation, the Coordinator demands a comprehensive port management plan that includes all stakeholders—shipping companies, freight forwarders, carriers, Port Police, and the Port Authority—and incorporates a real-time information system along with strict adherence to schedules by shipping companies. They also warn that the lack of coordination at berths—with up to four vessels simultaneously—aggravates congestion and hampers both loading and unloading maneuvers.
No concrete measures in sight
So far, the business committee and the Port Authority's president have been informed; however, the unions report that no concrete actions have been implemented to improve either the overall operation or the conditions of the operating staff.
The collapse of the Port of Algeciras goes beyond a one-time incident; it has become a structural problem with growing risk if urgent and coordinated decisions are not taken.
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