On Saturday, April 19, 2025, the "Hoy No Circula" program will be in effect across Mexico City (CDMX) and the State of Mexico (Edomex), aimed at reducing pollution levels and improving air quality in the region. This initiative, which has been implemented since 1989, restricts certain vehicles from circulating based on their emissions and license plate numbers.
The restrictions for this particular Saturday are significant. Vehicles with a hologram 1 and those with license plates ending in an odd number (1, 3, 5, 7, and 9) will not be allowed to circulate. Additionally, all vehicles with a hologram 2, regardless of their plate endings, are also banned from the roads. These limitations apply from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, not only in Mexico City but also in various municipalities in the State of Mexico, Hidalgo, and Puebla.
In total, the "Hoy No Circula" program will impact the 16 alcaldías of Mexico City and 18 municipalities in the surrounding states, including Atizapán de Zaragoza, Coacalco de Berriozábal, and Ecatepec de Morelos, among others. The goal is to combat air pollution in the Valley of Mexico, a region notorious for its smog and poor air quality.
However, not all vehicles are subject to these restrictions. Cars with holograms "doble cero" (00), "cero" (0), electric cars, and hybrid vehicles are exempt and can circulate freely every day, including weekends. This also includes motorcycles, public transport vehicles, and emergency vehicles. The exemptions are designed to encourage the use of cleaner vehicles and support the transition towards more sustainable transportation options.
For those who violate the "Hoy No Circula" restrictions, the penalties can be quite hefty. Fines range from 2,262.80 pesos to 3,394.20 pesos, depending on the specific violation. Authorities have the power to impound vehicles that are found in violation of the program, which adds another layer of consequence for non-compliance. The fines are imposed based on the current value of the Unidad de Medida y Actualización (UMA), which is approximately 113.14 pesos in 2025.
It is crucial for drivers to be aware of their vehicle's hologram and plate number to avoid these penalties. The program is particularly strict on weekends, as the number of vehicles on the road tends to increase, exacerbating pollution levels. By adhering to the "Hoy No Circula" regulations, drivers not only protect their wallets from fines but also contribute to improving the air quality for all residents.
As part of the ongoing efforts to mitigate pollution, the "Hoy No Circula" program is evaluated regularly, and additional measures may be introduced during periods of severe air quality deterioration. For example, the "Doble Hoy No Circula" can be activated based on air quality readings, further limiting vehicle circulation during critical times.
On this Saturday, it is essential for drivers in the affected areas to plan accordingly, checking their vehicle's status and ensuring compliance with the regulations. The program's effectiveness relies heavily on public cooperation, and authorities urge citizens to take these measures seriously.
In summary, the "Hoy No Circula" program for April 19, 2025, will restrict vehicles with hologram 1 and 2, as well as those with odd-numbered plates, from circulating in the Valley of Mexico. Exemptions apply to cleaner vehicles, and fines for violations can be substantial. The initiative aims not only to reduce traffic congestion but also to enhance the air quality and public health in the region.
As the weekend approaches, drivers are encouraged to stay informed about the regulations and plan their travel accordingly to avoid penalties and contribute to a healthier environment.
