**Government Launches ‘Bachetón’ to Overhaul Federal Highways Nationwide**
The Mexican government is set to initiate a comprehensive road repair program dubbed “Bachetón” aimed at revamping the country’s extensive federal highway network, which spans over 44,000 kilometers. This initiative, announced by Jesús Antonio Esteva Medina, the head of the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transport (SICT), is scheduled to commence in November 2024 and conclude by February 2025.
During a press conference held at the Palacio Nacional, Esteva Medina revealed a budget allocation of 4 billion pesos for the “Bachetón” program. The initial stage will also address damage inflicted on southeastern roads during the construction of the Tren Maya project. “The efforts will span all 32 states with an expected reach of 44,600 kilometers. SEDENA [Secretariat of National Defense] will assist in areas affected by the Tren Maya construction,” mentioned Esteva Medina.
The strategy incorporates routine maintenance actions, including pothole patching, leveling, weed control, and drainage ditch cleaning. Esteva Medina emphasized that these preventive measures are crucial to preventing additional damage to road infrastructure. The program will create 8,500 jobs with 134 active work fronts operating simultaneously.
Moreover, Esteva Medina outlined plans for more thorough periodic conservation efforts, which will generate another 2,750 jobs. “This phase covers about 600 to 700 kilometers, involving milling and asphalt overlay, with 28 fronts operational from December through April 2025,” he continued.
President Claudia Sheinbaum highlighted the significance of the “Bachetón” program, referencing studies by the National Institute of Statistics and Geography (INEGI) that report potholes as a major concern for citizens. “While municipalities and states are responsible for some areas, the federal government, through this program, will address pothole issues on federal roads,” Sheinbaum stated. She announced that bidding processes have already commenced, supported by a robust financial position left by former President López Obrador.
**Related News: Mexican Road Safety Overhaul Continues with Launch of ‘Bachetón’ Program**
In a bid to enhance the safety and efficiency of the nation’s transportation routes, the “Bachetón” program reflects a significant federal focus on infrastructure development. This initiative aligns with the broader objective of improving public roads, thereby facilitating smoother trade routes, enhancing travel safety, and supporting economic growth.
The government has demonstrated a steady commitment toward improving road conditions across the nation. Complementing these efforts are various regional projects addressing specific areas of need, thereby reinforcing the nation’s infrastructure resilience. The introduction of “Bachetón” marks a proactive step in alleviating maintenance backlogs and fostering a better road network for decades to come.
As the Mexican government embarks on this ambitious task, stakeholders eagerly anticipate the positive impact on both the economy and daily life of citizens, underscoring the essential nature of sustainable infrastructure management.