On Saturday, April 26, 2025, the Comisión Ambiental de la Megalópolis (CAMe) announced that the environmental contingency in the Valley of Mexico has been suspended, allowing the "Hoy No Circula" program to operate normally. This decision comes after improvements in air quality, which had previously prompted the activation of environmental measures due to high ozone levels.
The "Hoy No Circula" program restricts vehicle circulation in Mexico City and surrounding municipalities from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. On this particular Saturday, restrictions will apply to vehicles with specific verification holograms, particularly those with hologram 1 whose license plates end in even numbers (0, 2, 4, 6, 8) and all vehicles with hologram 2. The CAMe has emphasized that the fine for violating these restrictions ranges from 2,263 to 3,395 pesos, depending on the nature of the violation.
In a statement, the CAMe explained that the suspension of the environmental contingency was due to favorable meteorological conditions, including increased wind and reduced atmospheric stability, which allowed for better dispersion of pollutants. On Friday, April 25, 2025, the air quality monitoring station at UAM Xochimilco recorded ozone levels at 164 ppb, leading to the decision to lift the contingency.
The "Hoy No Circula" program has been a staple in Mexico City for over 30 years, with its Saturday version being implemented for nearly 15 years. This initiative aims to curb pollution by limiting the number of vehicles on the road during peak contamination periods. On April 26, 2025, the program will apply to the 16 boroughs of Mexico City and 18 municipalities in the State of Mexico, including Atizapán de Zaragoza, Cuautitlán, and Ecatepec.
Despite the suspension of the contingency, the CAMe reminded residents that certain vehicles are exempt from the "Hoy No Circula" restrictions. These include electric and hybrid vehicles, those with ecological registration or "Exento" holograms, and vehicles designated for emergency medical services. Taxis can operate freely between 5:00 AM and 10:00 AM, regardless of their hologram status, to facilitate public transportation.
Vehicles that are not permitted to circulate include those with hologram 2, and those with hologram 1 that have even-numbered plates. Additionally, vehicles without any hologram, including new cars, foreign plates, and those with temporary permits, are also restricted. The CAMe has stressed the importance of adhering to these regulations to ensure better air quality and public health.
As the environmental situation remains dynamic, the CAMe has warned that the contingency could be reinstated if pollution levels rise again. The agency is closely monitoring air quality and will make further announcements as needed. The public is urged to stay informed about potential changes to the "Hoy No Circula" program and to comply with any restrictions that may be implemented in the future.
In summary, the "Hoy No Circula" program on Saturday, April 26, 2025, will operate under normal conditions following the suspension of the environmental contingency. Motorists are encouraged to be aware of the restrictions and exemptions to avoid penalties while contributing to a cleaner environment.
