**Personnel Shortage at El Chaparral Border Crossing Hinders New X-Ray Equipment Operation**
The El Chaparral border crossing in Tijuana is experiencing a personnel shortage of up to 40% required to manage the new non-intrusive inspection equipment, which is designed to reduce wait times for vehicles entering Mexico. According to Alejandro Robles Segura, the head of Tijuana Customs, this deficit is a significant barrier to fully deploying this advanced technology.
Despite the current limitations, efforts are being made to train existing staff on the new systems. However, the hiring of additional agents has been stalled due to budget constraints at the federal level, which is expected to be addressed with new hires anticipated from January.
The reduced staff has meant that the X-ray machines are operational only during low traffic periods, as motorists still become accustomed to the new processes. Robles Segura emphasizes that once properly trained personnel are in place, the flow of vehicles should improve considerably.
Moreover, there’s been progress aimed at alleviating wait times. Since Robles Segura’s tenure began a year ago, significant upgrades have been made to improve vehicle lanes at both El Chaparral and Otay. Customs officials are also conducting studies to further streamline vehicle passages, with reports indicating a reduction in processing time to just four or five minutes per vehicle during optimal conditions.
Despite proposals to reopen the “Puerta México” crossing being shelved following repairs of the El Chaparral bridge, modernization continues with revamped equipment and consistent support from the National Guard in managing traffic control. However, challenges persist with drivers frequently disobeying traffic signals, leading to congestion. Traffic light respect and modernization remain focal points for improving border crossing efficiency.
**Secondary Article: Impacts of Border Personnel Shortages Across North American Borders**
The personnel shortages at border crossings are not isolated to Tijuana. Throughout North America, border staffing issues have impacted processing times and operations. In the United States, similar challenges have presented at various entry points, sparking calls for increased investment in border infrastructure and staffing.
Reports indicate that, like in Mexico, the U.S. has struggled with ensuring adequate personnel, which has led to prolonged wait times and operational hurdles at busy ports of entry. This is compounded by increasing cross-border travel demands and heightened security requirements.
Efforts to address these issues include calls for better resource allocation and recruitment drives to bolster personnel numbers. Additionally, technological advancements are being explored to expedite processing and reduce dependency on human staffing without compromising security. Both nations recognize the vital economic and social implications of efficient border operations and are working towards sustainable solutions to these ongoing challenges.