On Monday, March 10, 2025, Mexico City (CDMX) and the State of Mexico (Edomex) implemented the "Hoy No Circula" program, a vehicular restriction initiative aimed at reducing air pollution and improving environmental conditions. (paudal.com)

Background and Purpose

The "Hoy No Circula" program, which translates to "Today Does Not Circulate," is a longstanding environmental measure designed to limit the number of vehicles on the road during peak pollution periods. By restricting certain vehicles from circulating on specific days, the program seeks to decrease vehicular emissions, alleviate traffic congestion, and enhance air quality in the metropolitan areas of CDMX and Edomex. (en.wikipedia.org)

Details of the March 10, 2025 Restrictions

On March 10, 2025, the following vehicles were prohibited from circulating between 5:00 AM and 10:00 PM:

  • License Plate Termination: Vehicles with license plates ending in 5 and 6.
  • Hologram Category: Vehicles displaying holograms 1 and 2.
  • Sticker Color: Vehicles with yellow stickers.

These restrictions applied to both CDMX and various municipalities in Edomex, including Atizapán de Zaragoza, Coacalco de Berriozábal, Cuautitlán, and Ecatepec de Morelos, among others. (paudal.com)

Exemptions

Certain vehicles were exempt from these restrictions:

  • Zero or Double Zero Hologram Vehicles: Typically electric or hybrid vehicles that meet specific emissions standards.
  • Vehicles with Plates for People with Disabilities: Registered vehicles for individuals with disabilities.
  • Emergency and Funeral Service Vehicles: Including ambulances, fire trucks, and funeral service vehicles.

These exemptions aim to ensure that essential services and individuals with mobility challenges are not unduly affected by the restrictions. (paudal.com)

Implications and Impact

The "Hoy No Circula" program is a critical component of Mexico City's strategy to combat air pollution, which has been a persistent issue due to high vehicle emissions and industrial activities. By limiting the number of vehicles on the road, the program seeks to reduce the concentration of pollutants such as ozone and particulate matter, thereby improving public health and environmental quality. (en.wikipedia.org)

However, the program also presents challenges, including public resistance due to perceived inconveniences and the economic impact on businesses reliant on daily vehicle use. Additionally, the effectiveness of the program depends on strict enforcement and public compliance, which can vary.

Technical Details

Vehicles are assigned a hologram based on their emissions performance, determined through biannual emissions testing known as "verificación." The hologram categories are:

  • 00: Exempt from restrictions.
  • 0: Exempt from restrictions.
  • 1: Subject to restrictions.
  • 2: Subject to stricter restrictions.

The color of the sticker (gum) corresponds to the month of verification:

  • Green: April and May.
  • Red: March and April.
  • Yellow: January and February.
  • Pink: February and March.

These classifications help authorities manage and monitor vehicle emissions effectively. (en.wikipedia.org)

Conclusion

The "Hoy No Circula" program remains a pivotal measure in Mexico City's efforts to enhance air quality and public health. While it imposes certain restrictions on vehicle circulation, the overarching goal is to foster a cleaner, healthier urban environment for all residents.