Truck drivers in Jalisco have joined a nationwide protest demanding improved security and better highway infrastructure across Mexico. While the demonstration is active, the National Chamber of Freight Transport (CANACAR) confirmed that no roadblocks have been established, with heavy-duty vehicles remaining on-site to make their presence felt.
Daniel Flores, the CANACAR Jalisco delegate, stated that the primary goal is for the Federal Government to address the safety concerns of operators. “”We need our operators to return home safely, and we need their families to be at peace,”” Flores explained. He further emphasized the need for better road conditions, noting that companies are paying high toll fees without receiving adequate infrastructure in return.
Flores highlighted that while there has been a willingness to dialogue with the Secretariat of the Interior (Gobernación), no significant progress has been made. The transport sector is now requesting a direct meeting with the President of Mexico, as other legislative and executive instances have failed to provide satisfactory solutions.
“”There have been talks, and there has been intent from the Secretariat of the Interior, but we need to receive instructions and speak with the Presidency; it is the only person who can attend to us,”” Flores said. He added that transport companies are already facing a heavy burden from fuel costs and toll fees.
The demonstration in Jalisco is planned to be peaceful. “”The authorities have been aware of our actions. We have informed them that we are not blocking roads or thoroughfares; our intention is to demonstrate as Mexican citizens,”” Flores noted. The drivers have been instructed to remain on the side of the roads to visualize the national problem and do not rule out a multi-day protest.
He warned that if a satisfactory dialogue is not reached, the protest could affect the supply chain for food and fuel. “”It is possible it could last for several days if we don’t have an interlocution with the government that satisfies our requests. It could affect the supply of food and fuel, and obviously, everything could be complicated,”” he said.
The delegate identified several “”red zones”” in Jalisco where transport workers are frequently targeted by organized crime, including Los Altos de Jalisco, Lagos de Moreno, the Macrolibramiento, and El Salto. Furthermore, while harassment from the Vial Police and the National Guard has decreased, it continues to affect transport operations.