Pochimóviles, popular and accessible mototaxis in Campeche, face legal challenges and tensions with other transportation sectors, as evidenced by a recent riot in Ciudad del Carmen.
What Are Pochimóviles?
In Campeche, “pochimóviles” are a popular means of transportation, especially in urban and suburban areas. These vehicles are mototaxis, adaptations of motorcycles with a frame that allows them to carry passengers. The name “pochimóvil” comes from the word “pocho,” which in some regions of Mexico refers to something small or improvised, reflecting the modest and adapted nature of these vehicles.
Why Are They Called Pochimóviles?
The term “pochimóvil” has become popular due to the appearance and functionality of these vehicles. They are small, inexpensive, and have become an accessible transportation solution for many people in Campeche. However, their operation is often in a legal grey area, as many pochimóviles do not have the necessary concessions to operate as formal public transport.
Recent Controversy in Ciudad del Carmen
Recently, in Ciudad del Carmen, the detection of a pochimóvil without the proper permits sparked a riot. The incident occurred when inspectors from the State Institute of Transport (IET) carried out an operation in the Manigua neighborhood. The retention of a mototaxi led to a confrontation between mototaxi drivers, taxi drivers, and inspectors.
The operation resulted in the arrest of several pochimóviles and people, generating a violent confrontation that included verbal and physical aggression. The mototaxi drivers argued that they were providing a necessary service due to the lack of transportation options, while the taxi drivers and authorities insisted on the illegality of their operation without concessions.
Impact on the Community
These incidents reflect the tension between different sectors of transportation in Campeche. Pochimóviles, while useful for many users, face legal and safety challenges. Local authorities have stepped up operations to regulate their operation, seeking a balance between the need for accessible transportation and compliance with the law.
Pochimóviles are an integral part of the urban landscape in Campeche, offering an accessible transportation alternative. However, their regulation and the need for adequate concessions remain topics of debate and conflict. The recent confrontation in Ciudad del Carmen underscores the urgency of finding solutions that benefit both users and operators of these vehicles.
Source: Por Esto
