### Continuing Issues with Unauthorized Construction in Tijuana
Since October 15, excavators have been moving thousands of cubic meters of earth in lot 16, block 32, on Colima Street in Tijuana’s Madero neighborhood. Despite the local government’s suspension order due to a lack of proper permits, construction activities appear to be ongoing, alarming nearby residents.
Concerns have been raised by neighbors, such as Arturo MartÃnez, whose homes are at risk from the unpermitted earth-moving activities. The residents are particularly worried about potential landslides, especially given the steep slopes the construction is affecting.
The Urban Administration Department (DAU) noted they had not received any required permits or responses from the responsible building contractors, despite issuing official summonses to the involved parties. Notably, the current activity lacks the necessary approval from the municipal building codes, which could lead to a complete shutdown if compliance is not promptly addressed.
Residents have repeatedly requested interventions from municipal authorities, who have yet to confirm that the construction meets safety and engineering standards, which creates further insecurity among those living nearby. There are allegations that previous inappropriate zoning approvals might pave the way for future unauthorized construction projects, further complicating the city’s urban development struggles.
### Response to Irregular Building Practices in Urban Development
The issues related to unauthorized construction in Tijuana are not isolated incidents. Echoing the concerns seen in Colima, similar patterns are observed in other neighborhoods, as found during an investigative review of urban planning irregularities across the city.
Authorities have not yet concretely addressed the approval and enforcement of the Municipal Urban Development Plan (PMDUT) or the Urban Development Program for the City of Tijuana (PDUCPT) for 2023-2040. With potential legal challenges looming and public dissatisfaction growing, the government’s inability to implement these guidelines is apparent.
This inactivity encourages concern among residents, who fear that necessary infrastructure and environmental considerations are being overlooked or inadequately managed amid the city’s rapid growth and increased developmental pressures. Local movements and legal efforts have emerged to demand transparency and diligence in planning processes, emphasizing the need for adherence to existing urban guidelines to ensure equitable and safe development for all community members.
As Tijuana continues to expand, these ongoing disputes highlight critical flaws in the management and enforcement of urban planning policies, emphasizing the urgent need for reform and accountability to mitigate future issues.