Cancún transport seeks 50% fare hike amid service woes

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Public transport companies in Cancún have formally requested fare increases ranging from 35% to 50%, citing operational costs. The proposal, however, faces resistance from authorities who argue that the sector must first address systemic issues, including outdated vehicles, poor service quality, and frequent regulatory violations.

Proposed Fare Adjustments and Immediate Pushback

The companies, represented by the Sindicato de Taxistas "Andrés Quintana Roo" and concession holders Turicun, Autocar, Bonfil, and Maya Caribe, seek to raise urban zone fares from 10 to 15 pesos ($0.60 to $0.90) and hotel zone fares from 12 to 17 pesos ($0.70 to $1.00) per trip.

Rafael Hernández Kotasek, head of Quintana Roo’s Mobility Institute (Imoveqroo), dismissed the proposal, stating that fare hikes cannot be considered until operators modernize fleets, expand route coverage, and comply with safety regulations. "Before discussing tariffs, the sector must resolve structural problems," he emphasized.

Chronic Challenges in Cancún’s Transport System

As of June 2025, Cancún’s streets host over 28,500 vehicles, including buses, vans, taxis, and mototaxis—many operating irregularly or in poor condition. Key issues include:

• Fleet Deterioration: Units frequently lack ventilation, feature broken seats, and suffer from mechanical neglect.
• Traffic Violations: Drivers routinely speed, use phones while operating vehicles, and block lanes or bike paths.
• Route Saturation: Avenida Tulum handles 86% of all routes, exacerbating congestion. Routes 5, 10, and 44 face severe coverage gaps, while Route 4 has nearly vanished.
• Safety Concerns: The Benito Juárez municipality reports 2–3 daily accidents linked to public transport, often due to driver negligence or vehicle failures.

Government Stance and Pending Reforms

State and municipal officials insist that fare adjustments are off the table until operators demonstrate tangible improvements, such as:

• Fleet modernization.
• Optimized routes.
• Discounts for vulnerable groups.
• Compliance with mobility laws.

A revised Programa Integral de Movilidad Urbana Sustentable (Comprehensive Sustainable Urban Mobility Program), slated for completion by September 2025, will outline route reorganizations and vehicle eligibility criteria based on capacity, demand, and safety.

User Frustrations and Alternatives

Passengers routinely criticize overcrowding, delays, and unsafe conditions. Meanwhile, pilot programs—like Mérida’s Va y Ven buses, tested in Cancún for 15 days—hint at potential solutions. ADO, a major transport provider, has committed to acquiring similar units.

By the Numbers:

• Daily Fleet: 1,900 urban buses, 2,100 collective vans, 13,500 taxis, 11,000 mototaxis.
• Accidents: 2–3 daily, primarily involving public transport.

Authorities urge operators to prioritize service upgrades over fare increases, stressing that Cancún’s reputation as Mexico’s top tourist destination hinges on reliable, safe mobility.