Motorists in Oaxaca are facing a notable toll hike as the Federal Roads and Bridges of Income and related Services (Capufe) has increased rates by an average of 6.4%, effective January 10, 2025. The popular Mexico-Puebla route now costs 216 pesos, up from 204 pesos, marking a 6.8% increase. Other notable changes include the Puebla-Amozoc section rising to 84 pesos and the Tehuacán booth increasing from 52 to 55 pesos. This surge in toll prices comes just after the holiday season, raising concerns among drivers about the deteriorating conditions of the highways, which have been linked to numerous accidents due to potholes and inadequate maintenance. As inflation in the region hovers around 4.21%, these toll increases exceed the average price rise, prompting frustration among local transporters and commuters alike.
Q&A with Transportation Expert on Recent Toll hikes in Oaxaca
Editor: Thank you for joining us today. We’re delving into the recent toll hikes implemented by Capufe in Oaxaca, which have raised rates by an average of 6.4%, effective january 10, 2025. These changes seem to have sparked considerable concern among local motorists, particularly with the Mexico-Puebla route now costing 216 pesos. What are your initial thoughts on this increase?
Expert: It’s a notable concern, especially considering that the increase in tolls comes right after the holiday season when many families and businesses are already stretched financially. The rise from 204 pesos to 216 pesos on the Mexico-Puebla route reflects a 6.8% hike, which is above the average inflation rate in the region, currently hovering around 4.21%. This disproportionate increase is understandably frustrating for drivers who are already facing economic pressures.
Editor: Indeed. You mentioned the inflation rates. How do these toll hikes compare to the overall economic habitat faced by commuters and transporters in Oaxaca?
Expert: The toll hikes are quite stark when compared to regional inflation. For many individuals, particularly those reliant on road travel for their livelihoods, this increase comes at a time when they are already feeling the pinch from rising costs of living. Furthermore, other tolls like the Puebla-Amozoc section rising to 84 pesos and the Tehuacán booth increasing from 52 to 55 pesos only add to the burden. This doesn’t just impact individuals but can escalate costs for businesses that depend on transport across these routes, perhaps leading to higher prices for goods and services.
editor: With these toll increases, there are also concerns about the condition of the highways. Can you shed light on the connection between toll rates and the maintenance of these roads?
Expert: Absolutely, it’s a critical issue. Many drivers have expressed their dissatisfaction regarding the deteriorating conditions of the highways, noting that potholes and inadequate maintenance are contributing to accidents and vehicle damage. If tolls are increasing, one would expect that funds would be allocated towards improving road conditions. Though, the reality is that many are not seeing a direct correlation between toll payments and road maintenance. This disconnect raises significant questions about how Capufe manages their revenue and whether it’s effectively utilized for improving infrastructure.
Editor: What practical advice can you offer to motorists and transporters in light of these increases and the concerns around road conditions?
Expert: Firstly, staying informed about the toll rates and planning routes ahead of time can definitely help motorists manage their costs more effectively. Tools like Google Maps are increasingly providing updated toll information, which can definitely help drivers assess the financial impact of their journeys beforehand [[1]]. Additionally, it might potentially be worthwhile for commuters to explore alternative routes or modes of transport, especially when facing particularly high tolls.
moreover, I encourage drivers to engage with local advocacy groups. By voicing their concerns regarding road conditions and toll increases, they can pressure authorities to ensure that funds are properly allocated for maintenance and safety improvements. Collective action can sometimes lead to effective change.
Editor: Thank you for your insights. Understanding the implications of these toll hikes is crucial for our readers,especially as they navigate these changes in the transport landscape in Oaxaca.