The Environmental Commission of the Megalopolis (CAMe) has activated Phase 1 of the Environmental Contingency due to dangerously high ozone levels in the Metropolitan Zone of the Valley of Mexico. This action was prompted by a recorded maximum ozone concentration of 155 parts per billion at the Gustavo A. Madero station on the afternoon of March 18, 2025.
On March 19, 2025, significant traffic restrictions will be introduced as part of the 'Doble Hoy No Circula' initiative, which aims to mitigate the health risks associated with the ongoing air pollution crisis. Specifically, vehicles with verification hologram 2 are prohibited from circulating between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM. Vehicles with hologram 1, whose last digit is 1, 3, 4, 5, 7, or 9, as well as those with holograms 0 and 00, identified by a red sticker and having plates ending in 3 or 4, must also refrain from operating during this time frame. Moreover, any vehicle that does not possess a verification hologram will face the same circulation restrictions as those labeled with hologram 2.
Additionally, restrictions will apply to 50% of LP gas delivery units without dry disconnect valves, which bear the 'NON' ending on their registration plates. Local and federal cargo vehicles are forbidden from circulating between 6:00 AM and 10:00 AM unless they are part of the Self-Regulation Program of the CDMX or Edomex. Taxis that carry holograms '00', '0', '1', or '2' will also be limited in their operation from 10:00 AM to 10:00 PM, adhering to the outlined regulations.
CAMe noted that the stability of the atmosphere significantly worsened post-2:00 PM on March 18, resulting in substantially adverse conditions for pollutant dispersion. This was compounded by weak winds and intense solar radiation, which fostered the formation of ozone. As conditions remain unfavorable, the agency anticipates continued challenges in dispersing air contaminants in the coming hours.
As part of the public health advisories, residents are urged to minimize outdoor activities, particularly between 1:00 PM and 7:00 PM. Activities such as civic engagements, cultural events, and even exercise should be avoided to reduce the risk of exposure to elevated pollution levels. Additionally, smoking is discouraged, especially in enclosed spaces, to further protective efforts against poor air quality.
However, there are exemptions to these restrictions. Electric and hybrid vehicles, those with ecological registration, or exempt holograms are allowed full circulation rights irrespective of the restrictions imposed. Vehicles with valid holograms '0' or '00' can circulate if they are registered outside the red sticker classifications, and medical emergencies are treated with an exemption for particular vehicles. Taxis are authorized to operate from 5:00 AM to 10:00 AM even if they fall under the restricted categories to facilitate mobility for the public.
Furthermore, emergency response vehicles and those required for essential services like healthcare, law enforcement, and public safety are also exempt from the circulation restrictions. Other essential service vehicles and school transports that meet verification specifications with proper authorization are likewise exempt.
In light of these measures, residents are encouraged to stay updated on air quality conditions and adhere to the recommendations to safeguard their health. The CAMe remains vigilant and will continue to monitor ozone levels closely, making adjustments to the restrictions as necessary in the days to come.
The situation remains dynamic, and as authorities work to ensure public safety amid challenging meteorological conditions, residents are called upon to cooperate with the guidelines set forth to effectively manage air quality crises in the future.
