Following late January discussions with Jalisco government officials, anti-inspection protesters have proposed implementing a “Hoy No Circula” (No Driving Today) pilot program in Puerto Vallarta. Under this initiative, older vehicles failing inspection would receive restrictive stickers limiting their road use to specific days rather than being completely banned from driving.
Alejandro Juárez, representing the city’s anti-verification groups, reported that moderate protesters developed and presented this proposal as an alternative to vehicle confiscation while still addressing pollution concerns. The plan awaits review by state authorities.
“The authorities showed significant openness and interest in finding solutions. They found our previous unresolved proposal intriguing,” Juárez noted. He added that the program aims to mirror similar systems in other cities, allowing older vehicles to continue operating while owners make necessary improvements to eventually pass inspection and regain full road access.
“Personally, I would prefer limiting my driving to five days a week rather than losing my vehicle entirely,” Juárez stated.
The Jalisco government representatives expressed willingness to evaluate the proposal but requested formal written submission of the demands. They also agreed to organize an open forum where citizens and specialists could discuss the issue, alongside a more formal expert panel to address vehicle inspection concerns and provide official responses.
Additional meetings are planned with anti-verification groups from other Jalisco cities, including Guadalajara, Tepatitlán, and Ciudad Guzmán, to coordinate efforts and present unified alternatives.
For context, in January, groups opposing verification – particularly those from the radical wing – staged a demonstration that blocked Puerto Vallarta’s main avenue for three and a half hours protesting the measure. However, moderates are now working to maintain productive dialogue that will lead to viable solutions.