The mayor’s office Iztapalapa will launch a security and road control operation from November 1 to 3 to guarantee the integrity of visitors and residents who attend civil and community cemeteries on the occasion of the Day of the Dead.
The measure includes controls at key points in the demarcation and restrictions at the entrances to the busiest cemeteries.
Security and access operation in main pantheons
The most visited pantheons, such as San Nicolás Tolentino, San Lorenzo Tezonco and General Iztapalapa (La Cuevita), along with seven neighborhood cemeteries, They will open their doors from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.applying intermittent cuts in case of high concentration of people to facilitate the safe exit of visitors.
During the operation, screening protocols will be implemented at the entrances, where the entry of sharp weapons, firearms, or alcoholic beverages will not be allowed. These searches will include backpacks, bags, and vehicle trunks.
Civil Protection, medical assistance and coordination
To deal with any eventuality, Civil defense There will be care modules in the busiest cemeteries, ready to provide help in cases of dehydration or any incident.
In addition, mobile units from the Public Ministry and the civic court will be present to offer immediate attention in case of legal or security situations.
The General Directorate of Government and Citizen Protection of Iztapalapa will coordinate more than 110 security elements, distributed in strategic areas of the main pantheons.
Among the corporations that will participate in the operation are the Auxiliary Police, the Transit Police and the National Guard. This security team will be complemented by directors and territorial chiefs in charge of direct supervision in each surveillance area.
As part of the operation, on November 1, a partial closure will be carried out in both directions of Ermita Avenue, in the section that goes from Rojo Gómez to Francisco Pascual García, allowing the safe flow of pedestrians and protecting attendees during the commemoration.
In high concentration areas, such as the San Nicolás Tolentino and San Lorenzo Tezonco pantheons, command posts will be established and emergency units will be assigned to immediately respond to any incident.
The security deployment will be maintained during the busiest days to guarantee a safe, peaceful celebration with respect for traditions.
The mayor’s office called on citizens to respect the established rules and collaborate with safety instructions to make this festivity an organized and incident-free experience.
Interview: Ensuring Safety During Día de los Muertos in Iztapalapa
Time.news Editor (TNE): Welcome to our special feature on safety during the Day of the Dead celebrations. Joining us today is Dr. María Gonzalez, an expert in urban security and community management. Thank you for being here, Dr. Gonzalez.
Dr. María Gonzalez (MG): Thank you for having me! It’s always a pleasure to discuss such important topics, especially during such a culturally significant time.
TNE: Iztapalapa’s mayor’s office has announced a security and road control operation for the Days of the Dead from November 1 to 3. What are the primary goals of this initiative?
MG: The operation aims to ensure the safety and well-being of both visitors and residents as they commemorate their loved ones. With large gatherings expected at various cemeteries, proper crowd management and security protocols are essential to prevent any incidents and to facilitate a respectful environment for the celebrations.
TNE: The announcement mentions controls at key points and restricted access to popular cemeteries like San Nicolás Tolentino and La Cuevita. How do you see these measures impacting the flow of visitors?
MG: Opening the main pantheons from 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m., along with intermittent access cuts during peak times, is a proactive approach. It will help manage the crowd density, which is vital for safety. This also allows people to pay their respects without feeling overwhelmed. However, clear communication about these restrictions will be crucial to prevent confusion among the visitors.
TNE: Screening protocols at the entrances prohibit sharp weapons, firearms, and alcohol. How effective do you believe these measures will be in maintaining safety?
MG: Implementing screening measures at the entrances is a significant step towards ensuring safety. These protocols can deter potential threats and provide peace of mind for attendees. However, it’s important that these measures are carried out efficiently and respectfully to avoid creating excessive delays or discomfort for those entering to honor their deceased.
TNE: The article mentions coordination with Civil Protection for medical assistance. How important is this aspect during such large gatherings?
MG: Extremely important. Large gatherings can pose health risks—be it due to environmental factors, medical emergencies, or even just the stress of the event. Having medical assistance readily available can make a significant difference in emergency situations. It also reflects a community’s commitment to protecting its members, fostering a sense of safety amid the celebrations.
TNE: As an expert on community management, what advice would you offer to visitors attending the celebrations?
MG: My advice would be to plan your visit. Arrive early, familiarize yourself with the regulations, and respect the safety protocols in place. It’s also a great opportunity to come with family and friends to ensure that everyone is safe together. Lastly, be mindful of your surroundings and report any suspicious activities to authorities promptly.
TNE: Some may view these measures as overly cautious. How can the community be encouraged to see the value in them?
MG: Education is key. The more the community understands the reasons behind these security measures, the more they’ll appreciate them. Community leaders, local media, and even social media can play a role in spreading awareness about the importance of safety and how it ensures a respectful environment for remembrance. When people see these actions as a safeguard for their loved ones and their community, they’re likely to support them.
TNE: Thank you, Dr. Gonzalez, for sharing your insights today. As Día de los Muertos approaches, it’s reassuring to know that measures are in place to ensure everyone can celebrate safely.
MG: Thank you for having me! Let’s hope for a peaceful and respectful celebration for all.
TNE: And thank you to our viewers for tuning in. Stay informed, stay safe, and honor the memories of your loved ones this Día de los Muertos.