**Government Proposes Purchasing Existing Homes for Landslide Victims in Tijuana**
The Secretary of Infrastructure, Urban Development, and Territorial Reorganization has suggested a new approach to housing assistance for families affected by landslides in Tijuana. Arturo Espinoza Jaramillo, the head of the department, recommends acquiring existing homes for the victims instead of constructing new ones.
Espinoza highlighted a proposal submitted to national housing authorities. He emphasized that while a government subsidy of around 450,000 pesos is available for building new homes, purchasing already constructed housing could offer a more cost-effective and timely solution. This suggestion stems from the high costs associated with preparing and safeguarding land against further landslides and heavy rain, which can inflate building expenses to nearly 1 million pesos.
During a government review session, Espinoza disclosed that approximately 1,700 families have suffered due to unstable lands. Of these, 134 families are targeted for resettlement in phases 3 and 4 of the Vista Horizonte development. However, issues such as unclaimed federal disaster relief in Camino Verde remain unresolved, partly because of procedural requirements by state and federal agencies.
Espinoza revealed that 42 families from Camino Verde and 20 from Los Laureles have been approved for relocation to Vista Horizonte, a community with complete utilities and infrastructure designed to mitigate future landslide risks. Experts have advised against rebuilding in Camino Verde due to severe geologic instabilities, favoring reallocation as a safer alternative.
Despite discussions on potential structural interventions, tests have shown that further development in certain affected areas is not viable. As a preventive measure, a series of underground supports was installed to stabilize one of the more vulnerable sections, effectively halting movement in that area.
**Update on Tijuana’s Landslide Recovery Efforts**
In the broader picture of ongoing relief efforts, Tijuana authorities continue to address the multifaceted housing challenges that have emerged after recent landslides. With a pressing need to rehouse thousands of displaced individuals, state and federal bodies are negotiating additional funding and logistical support.
Current discussions with national housing bodies like Sedatu and Conavi focus on how best to leverage available subsidies to meet immediate housing needs. Local authorities are also considering public-private partnerships to expedite the acquisition and distribution of ready-to-move-in houses. This underscores a strategic shift from traditional building to accommodating urgent needs through existing real estate, deemed more accessible and financially prudent under the circumstances.
As these plans evolve, the government aims to ensure a smooth transition for affected families, with safety and long-term stability as key priorities in the resettlement process. Meanwhile, initiatives to fortify vulnerable land areas are being reviewed, promising a more resilient infrastructure in Tijuana’s high-risk zones.