Big Taxis Tackle Rush Hour

Transport companies in Baja California are enhancing their fleet with larger taxis to meet peak hour demands, aiming to reorganize routes efficiently, reduce queues in high-demand areas, and improve overall urban air quality.

**Enhanced Capacity Taxis to Address Demand: A Step Forward in Public Transport**

In response to the increasing demand for public transportation during peak hours, transport companies in Baja California plan to upgrade their fleet by replacing small taxis with larger vehicles, announced Jorge Alberto GutiƩrrez Topete, the director of the Sustainable Mobility Institute (IMOS). An example of this change is a transport company stationed in Zona Centro that is transitioning from Urvan type vehicles to larger Sprinter types, which boast a 50% increase in capacity.

GutiĆ©rrez Topete emphasized the need to reorganize the city’s public transport routes, especially those with high passenger demand. The plan involves developing 10 main routes that would efficiently serve high-demand areas, while smaller units will be redirected to serve the city’s outskirts. This initiative aims to alleviate the long queues of passengers waiting for transport, particularly during late afternoon rush hours in central city locations.

Additionally, two strategic corridors are being evaluated to improve service: one in the Otay area and another to connect the eastern zone with the Esperanto Park. The need for this new route was identified due to the influx of visitors arriving in private vehicles and the limited parking at the park. Another planned route will connect Tijuana’s technical institutes and the University of Baja California (UABC).

In related developments, IMOS has assured that transportation fares will remain unchanged in 2025, providing relief to commuters already facing congestion challenges.

**Secondary Article: Rising Traffic Calls for Better Transport Solutions**

As urban areas see a rise in traffic and demand for efficient transport solutions, experts and local authorities stress the importance of upgrading public transportation systems. With congestion and pollution concerns growing, cities worldwide are exploring similar initiatives.

Recently, a study aimed at improving transportation options for university students was launched, highlighting the importance of considering young commuters in transport planning. Tijuanaā€™s ongoing efforts, notably introducing higher-capacity taxis and developing key transport corridors, reflect a global push towards more sustainable and efficient urban mobility solutions.

Meanwhile, environmental challenges in Tijuana have led to the issuance of 10 air quality alerts in October. These alerts underscored the importance of enhancing public transport to mitigate vehicular pollution impacts. Efforts to improve transport infrastructure align with long-term goals to enhance urban air quality and public health.