**Mexicali Police Issue 101 Eco-Fines During Christmas Operations**
During a focused operation from 6:00 a.m. on December 24th to the same time on December 25th, the Mexicali Ecological Police issued 101 fines. The operation aimed to curb activities detrimental to the environment over the festive period.
According to municipal authorities, the breakdown of infractions is as follows: 53 fines for burning bonfires, 26 for using fireworks, 9 for loud music, 3 for littering in public areas, 2 for burning trash, 3 for water wastage, 3 for obstructing public pathways, one for animal cruelty, and another for failing to leash pets.
The Director of the Municipal Police emphasized that bonfire emissions were the main reason behind these penalties, which ranged from 40 to 400 UMAs, translating into fines between approximately 4,300 to 43,000 pesos.
Authorities confirmed that a similar operation will occur during New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day 2025, aiming to further reduce pollution levels. Despite the municipal leadership’s statements, residents from the “Pueblas” neighborhoods reported ongoing pyrotechnics usage, which local police reportedly ignored.
**Additional Reports on Environmental Enforcement During Festive Season**
In parallel to the situation in Mexicali, regions across Mexico have intensified measures to protect the environment during holiday celebrations, often characterized by pyrotechnics and bonfires.
In cities like Tijuana and Ensenada, authorities have also ramped up their environmental policing efforts to handle the festive surge in activities that contribute to environmental degradation. Officials in these areas are particularly concerned about the air quality impact and public disturbances, urging residents to celebrate responsibly.
In Tijuana, aside from ecological concerns, a significant police presence was established due to reported cases of holiday-related violence, emphasizing a dual focus on community safety and environmental health during the final days of the year.
This coordinated effort with city residents is hoped to instill long-term changes in holiday traditions, encouraging more environmentally-friendly practices.