FEMCICs Call for Highway Maintenance Funds

The Mexican Federation of Civil Engineering Associations (FEMCIC) has expressed concerns about the recent cancellation of the maintenance and conservation program for federal highways in Mexico. The organization warns that this decision could lead to job losses and the eventual deterioration of Mexico's main roads due to wear and tear.

The maintenance program, part of the KO32 branch for "Reconstruction and Conservation of Highways" within the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT), has been suspended following instructions from the Ministry of Finance (SHCP).

FEMCIC says this decision puts at risk the 42,000km network of toll-free roads across the country. Despite the Mexican Congress allocating MX$11 billion (US$645.1 million) for this purpose, the funds have been reserved "due to force majeure," leading to the suspension of maintenance works, the federation reported.

As a response, FEMCIC, representing and uniting 61 Colleges of Civil Engineering Professionals nationwide, expressed its concern. The organization, known for its collaboration with authorities on critical infrastructure issues, highlights the potential consequences of neglecting maintenance and conservation actions on the daily operations of these highways. Without timely intervention, the operability of these roads will decrease, ultimately rendering them inoperative.

The organization urges authorities to restart bidding and contracting processes in compliance with the Public Works and Related Services Law. This, they argue, is essential to ensuring the maintenance of road infrastructure, road safety, and connectivity, as well as to ensure that budgetary exercises are carried out within legal terms and deadlines.

FEMCIC emphasizes that the cancellation of this program not only jeopardizes thousands of jobs but also threatens the proper functioning of the road infrastructure. This, in turn, impacts the quality of life for citizens and social welfare indicators in the country.