Mexico's transport sector is facing a critical shortage of secure rest stops for drivers, according to a report by expansion.mx. The lack of these facilities makes it difficult to comply with regulation NOM-087-SCT2-2017, which mandates a 30-minute break after every five hours of driving.
Although the Federal Government introduced the concept of “comprehensive rest areas” (paradores integrales) last July, coordination between authorities and the private sector to address this need is still in its early stages. These designated stops are required to feature access controls, rest areas, medical services, and food zones.
Industry representatives have already begun discussions with the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT) to understand the technical requirements. “Last week we met with the SICT, where they informed us about the comprehensive rest areas. We now have firsthand information regarding the criteria for a stop to qualify, and we have already reached out to interested investors,” said Ramos.
The Need for Specialized Infrastructure
Industry leaders argue that current federal plans have focused heavily on road maintenance and bridge construction, overlooking the security of roadside stops. The industry believes it is urgent that investment shifts toward making existing spaces fully operational.
“There is a need for new rest stops, but there is also a need to ensure that existing ones are up to standard to truly be called 'comprehensive rest areas,' especially regarding security,” the industry representative reiterated.
Drivers require adequate facilities for dining, overnight stays, and access to basic services like showers. The lack of such infrastructure compromises both road safety and the well-being of those traveling national routes.
In July 2023, Jesús Esteva Medina, head of the SICT, announced plans to construct 30 comprehensive rest areas by 2030. The first phase includes 10 stops, backed by an initial mixed investment of approximately 1 billion pesos.
