700 Unsafe Taxis Still Operate in Cancún

Cancún, Mexico — Despite a state mobility law that prohibits vehicles older than 10 years from operating, hundreds of taxis in deplorable condition continue to circulate in Cancún, projecting a negative image for both residents and visitors. Users are now calling on the Quintana Roo Institute of Mobility (Imoveqroo) to enforce the regulations.

In 2018, Imoveqroo determined that concessionaires must renew their units and remove vehicles in poor condition from circulation. However, seven years later, many of these cars—primarily Nissan Tsuru models—remain in operation.

According to the general secretary of the "Andrés Quintana Roo" Taxi Union, Rubén Carrillo Buenfil, approximately 700 of the more than 5,000 Tsurus that once comprised the fleet still need to be replaced. He acknowledged that the process is moving forward gradually but assured that these units are no longer permitted to be registered or have their registration renewed.

User dissatisfaction is increasing. "The taxi I got into was dirty, with torn seats and an unbearable smell. It's embarrassing that tourists have to experience this in Cancún," said Mariana, a hotel sector worker.

"The drivers are rude and do not respect traffic laws. I have seen them run red lights and even use their cell phones while driving," stated Jorge, a university student.

"Sometimes they refuse service if the destination is not convenient for them, or they want to pick up multiple people at the same time to charge double. It's an abuse," denounced Elena, a resident of the Region 94 area.

"Some drivers do not even care about their personal appearance: they are unkempt, sweaty, and without a uniform. The way they treat the car is the way they treat the passengers," affirmed Carlos, a frequent user.

The Taxi Union has proposed that the fleet renewal should be oriented toward electric vehicles as a viable and sustainable measure. Carrillo Buenfil clarified that they are not considering the introduction of small taxis of Indian origin, despite their low cost and fuel efficiency, because they would not replace traditional taxis.

For users, the transition continues to be insufficient and too slow. Luis Rubio, a service user, stated that as long as dilapidated units are not removed from circulation and drivers are not trained in urbanism, education, and respect for traffic regulations and the Mobility Law, the service will remain a source of complaints. This affects not only local mobility but also the tourist image of Cancún.

He added that, fortunately, transportation via digital platforms now exists, offering more accessible fares, clean vehicles with air conditioning, and kinder, more polite drivers. "They even offer coffee and cold drinks," he commented.