**Long Waits and High Fares: The Unresolved Transportation Issue for UABC Students**
**Problems Persist for UABC Otay Campus Students**
Students from the evening shift at the Universidad Autónoma de Baja California (UABC) Otay campus continue to face significant challenges with public transportation. These include long waiting times and fares that contradict the established student rates. During a survey conducted outside the university, it was revealed that most students have to wait between one and two hours for transportation.
Students form up to four queues to board public transportation, with lines identified for routes heading to different destinations like the Natura subdivision, 5 y 10, Villa Fontana, and Playas de Rosarito. However, confusion often arises over which line to follow.
Cristian González, a third-semester sociology student, described his routine struggles: “I have to wait until 10:00 p.m. sometimes, even though my class ends at 8:00 p.m. Sometimes, professors even let us out early to help us catch transportation.” He highlighted issues beyond just waiting times, noting that he often gets charged rates higher than the student fare. “Two weeks ago, a driver told me he had no student tickets, so I had to pay the full 16 pesos,” Cristian said, noting that the student fare is supposed to be eight pesos.
Daniel López, studying translation and using the Playas de Rosarito route, shared similar sentiments. “There’s a lack of order; people often cut in line.” He reported wait times ranging between one and one and a half hours.
**Administrative Efforts and Persistent Issues**
Haydée Gómez Llanos, the vice chancellor of UABC Tijuana, mentioned that to address these transportation issues, some evening classes have been ending earlier. However, students like Jorge Cortéz and Paul Fuentes stated that earlier dismissals have not alleviated the problem. “We still end up waiting long periods even if we leave between 8:00 and 9:00 p.m.,” they noted.
For better access, UABC has collaborated with three transportation companies offering specific routes like Tijuana-Tecate, Otay-Natura, and the route covering 5 y 10, Plaza Carrousel, and La Presa. Despite these measures, irregularities in fare collection persist, with some drivers not honoring the student rate.
Attempts to get comments from the Instituto de Movilidad Sustentable (IMOS) regarding these issues were unsuccessful.
**Additional Information and Updates**
Given the growing concerns, parents and student groups are advocating for better transportation solutions. This has led to increased involvement from local authorities and transportation agencies.
**Secondary Article: Expansion of Public Transportation Solutions for UABC Students**
In response to the ongoing issues facing UABC students, local authorities are considering new measures to improve public transportation. According to recent announcements, Tijuana’s transportation department is evaluating the feasibility of adding more buses during peak hours to reduce waiting times and ensure fares are appropriately applied.
The city is also examining the implementation of real-time tracking systems for buses to allow students to better plan their commutes, potentially reducing wait times. These measures aim to provide a more reliable and cost-effective transportation system for students.
**Parental and Community Involvement in Transportation Advocacy**
In a bid to further support the students, parents and community leaders have organized forums to discuss possible solutions and are urging city officials to take immediate action. Key proposals include the introduction of a dedicated student shuttle service during evening hours, enhanced safety measures at bus stops, and stricter enforcement of fare regulations.
These community-led initiatives underscore the urgent need for effective and sustainable transportation solutions for UABC students, ensuring their safety and well-being during their commutes.