The toll on the Campeche-Champotón highway, part of federal highway 180, has increased by eight percent, surprising users. Caminos y Puentes Federales (Capufe) raised the toll from 89 to 95 pesos without prior notice, effective since Friday morning.
This highway, approximately 48 kilometers long, saves at least 15 kilometers of travel between Campeche and Champotón. The Mexican Association of Transport Operators (Amotac) has labeled federal highway 180 as one of the worst in the country, particularly the stretch from Carmen to Campeche, due to poor infrastructure and lack of maintenance by the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SICT).
The SICT has cited a lack of resources and alleged corruption in previous administrations, which awarded long-term contracts to companies based on personal interests and cronyism. Additionally, there has been an increase in funding for the Mayan Train project, while resources for SICT and other agencies have decreased.
Transport companies like Delfines and Autobuses de Oriente (ADO) have not yet indicated whether the toll increase will affect ticket prices on the Campeche-Champotón route. These companies use the highway under the Federal Transportation Law to obtain the necessary permits from SICT. The rising cost of gasoline adds to the concerns.
Social media users have expressed their frustration, questioned the lack of notice and proposed to block the toll booth due to the highway’s poor condition. The road has asphalt patches that damage tires and recently installed speed bumps without proper signage.
With the increase in tolls, citizens fear higher transportation fares for those traveling to work or school in the municipalities along the highway.
Source: La Jornada Maya
