Background on the Issue
In Puebla, Mexico, 50% of the approximately 1,900 tourist buses operate illegally. These vehicles exceed the authorized period of 12 years, with some having been in service for up to three decades. Moreover, many of these buses lack passenger insurance.
Who is Juan Carlos Méndez Rodríguez?
Juan Carlos Méndez Rodríguez is the president of the Union of Tourist Transportation in Puebla. His organization represents responsible tourism service providers committed to passenger safety.
The Current Situation
Mr. Méndez Rodríguez highlighted that 70 affiliated companies have written to both the federal Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT) and the state government, urging them to enforce regulations against buses that have surpassed their useful life.
These illegal operators charge slightly less than legitimate companies with modern vehicles, yet they pose a significant risk to passengers. The illegal bus operators often lack proper licenses for their drivers, further endangering travelers.
Lack of Insurance Coverage
Mr. Méndez Rodríguez emphasized that these illegal bus operators also fail to provide essential insurance coverage for passengers. In the unfortunate event of an accident, passengers on these buses do not receive proper medical attention or compensation.
Call for Action
The president of the Union of Tourist Transportation in Puebla urged authorities to stop tolerating substandard service provided by these illegal operators. He pointed out that companies adhering to regulations, maintaining updated vehicles, and employing properly licensed drivers are unfairly targeted for sanctions.
Mr. Méndez Rodríguez stressed that offering tourist transportation services demands a higher sense of responsibility, as families plan annual excursions and seek reliable, well-maintained vehicles.
Impact on Drivers and Road Safety
He also mentioned that the prevailing insecurity on roads has led to a shortage of drivers, as many are concerned about becoming victims of crime. This issue disproportionately affects cargo transportation rather than tourist buses.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the problem? Approximately 50% of tourist buses in Puebla operate illegally, exceeding the authorized 12-year service period and lacking essential passenger insurance.
- Who is Juan Carlos Méndez Rodríguez? He is the president of the Union of Tourist Transportation in Puebla, representing responsible tourism service providers committed to passenger safety.
- Why are these illegal buses a concern? These buses pose risks to passengers due to outdated vehicles, unlicensed drivers, and the absence of proper insurance coverage.
- What actions are being taken? The Union of Tourist Transportation in Puebla has reached out to federal and state authorities, requesting enforcement against illegal bus operators.
- How does this issue affect drivers? Road insecurity and crime concerns have led to a shortage of drivers, impacting both cargo and tourist transportation.
