Members of the National Chamber of Cargo Transportation (Canacar) in Yucatan have resorted to making trips only during the day as a security measure.
Although there has been a slight reduction in the rate of cargo vehicle robberies at the national level, insecurity on federal highways outside the Yucatan Peninsula remains a significant problem. This issue could lead to serious consequences, such as increased prices for basic products.
Francisco Rivas Gamboa, Canacar delegate in Yucatan, stated that members have implemented alternatives to avoid robberies, such as avoiding night travel. Another problem affecting the sector is the notable increase in insurance costs, which have skyrocketed, making comprehensive coverage almost unaffordable. This measure aims to prevent daily operating costs from rising for each driver.
“Thefts have been ongoing. The theft rate in 2023 had risen by 5.69%, but in 2024, national graphs show a drop of 12.80% due to measures like traveling during the day and avoiding night travel. At checkpoints, we often don’t know if it’s really the police or those who make the trucks disappear,” Rivas Gamboa explained.
Rivas Gamboa noted that the situation in the Yucatan Peninsula is different. When carriers see something suspicious on the road, they usually warn or notify security authorities, which have helped maintain safety in the state. “In Quintana Roo, robberies are minimal. The Campeche area began to deteriorate but has been calmer. The peninsula is relatively safe compared to areas north of Coatzacoalcos,” he said.
Rivas Gamboa also highlighted the impact of rising fuel costs, such as diesel, and toll booth rates on federal highways. These increases affect 38% to 40% of the sector’s operations. This could also lead to higher prices for basic products, as increased freight transport costs due to rising fuel and toll road expenses result in adjustments to the prices of goods consumed by citizens.
Source: Sipse
