On February 20, 2025, the "Hoy No Circula" program will be implemented as usual across Mexico City (CDMX) and the State of Mexico (Edomex). This environmental initiative is aimed at reducing vehicle emissions and improving air quality, particularly during the high-pollution seasons.
The restrictions will apply to specific vehicles based on their license plates, with certain types being completely barred from circulation. On this day, vehicles with green stickers, ending their license plates with the numbers 1 and 2, as well as those carrying holograms 1 and 2, will not be allowed on the roads from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM. This policy is part of broader air quality management strategies enacted by the Commission for Environmental Protection of the Megalopolis (CAMe).
Those who ignore the "Hoy No Circula" rules face significant penalties. According to regulations, fines could range from 20 to 30 times the current Unit of Measurement and Update (UMA), equivalent to between 2,074.80 pesos to 3,112.20 pesos, depending on the violation. This is no trivial matter, as the authorities are diligent about enforcing these restrictions.
Despite the stringent restrictions, there are some exemptions. Vehicles exempt from the "Hoy No Circula" regulations include those with sticker holograms 0 and 00, electric and hybrid cars, motorcycles, public transport vehicles, emergency service vehicles, and those driven by individuals with disabilities who possess the appropriate permits. This approach aims to accommodate necessary transportation and encourage the use of less polluting vehicles.
To reinforce awareness, the program operates every day except Sundays. This effectively means individuals can drive freely before the restrictions kick back in on Monday morning. The premise behind the limited driving days is to curtail emissions during peak pollution times, contributing to healthier air for residents.
The effective zones for these restrictions cover all 16 boroughs of Mexico City and 18 adjoining municipalities within the State of Mexico. Municipalities such as Atizapán de Zaragoza, Ecatepec, and Nezahualcóyotl fall under this jurisdiction, making it imperative for drivers to remain informed about their vehicle status.
Given the high stakes of non-compliance, drivers are urged to take heed of these rules. The penalties for disregarding the "Hoy No Circula" guidelines could not only impact their wallets but also contribute to more widespread environmental issues. This initiative is geared at promoting clean air and sustainable transport practices.
“Los vehículos que no podrán circular este jueves por el Hoy No Circula son aquellos que cuentan con engomado verde, terminación de placas 1 y 2, así como todos los coches que cuenten con holograma de verificación 1 y 2,” cautioned an official source, emphasizing the need for adherence to the restrictions.
To avoid fines and maintain compliance with the program, drivers are recommended to consult local announcements about their vehicle's status days before. Planning alternative transportation options is also advised to mitigate the hassle on days when restrictions are active.
With the anticipated implementation of "Hoy No Circula," authorities continue to encourage the public to embrace more sustainable travel modes. Such measures aim to provide healthier living conditions not just for the present but also for future generations. Avoiding these simple restrictions could mean the difference between convenience and steep financial penalties.
Taking proactive steps to comply with the "Hoy No Circula" guidelines protects individual drivers and contributes to public health and environmental well-being across the expansive metropolitan regions of Mexico City and its surroundings.