Security in Mexico City

The Mexico City Subway System (Metro)

We recently received a request from one of our readers in London, England concerning the subway system in Mexico City, otherwise known as the Metro. While most foreign executives do not rely on public transportation, many tourists, who want the local experience, do. Also, many young backpackers who arrive or depart from the city's bus terminals normally take the metro. Riding the metro in Mexico City is usually quite safe; however, don't forget to use common sense. Crime prevention rules apply everywhere, especially in large cities. If you are able to read in Spanish, a must-see website with complete maps of the subway system is http://www.metro.df.gob.mx/red/index.html.

All you need to know about the metro is available here. Before you make use of the metro's excellent services it would be wise to become familiar with its lines and destinations via online maps or the above website. Once you enter the metro, please make sure you know and understand where you are located and the destination you intend to reach. Getting lost in the subway, especially if you cannot communicate in Spanish, would be an adventure. Also, memorize or at least try to identify ahead of time any transfer stations you might need to pass through on your route.

Be careful when entering and departing the subway cars. The doors open and close quickly. Obey the restrictive lines painted on the ground at transfer stations; these are meant for your protection. Preventive security measures include the following: don't carry credit cards, beware of pickpockets and possible harassment in crowded situations and avoid wearing flashy jewelry. Metro users who must report on time for work, school or other important appointments will push their way past you (sometimes in a rough manner), and the experience may not be pleasant. However, the rides are safe and enjoyable if you use the metro on weekends or during the week when it's not rush hour.

Coming Out of Metro Stations

Make sure you wear informal clothing when using the metro. Bring your walking shoes especially for transfer stations where you will be expected to walk long distances and climb stairs. When you come out of stations, you should never board the roving green taxis that are waiting outside. Again, plan your activities ahead of time. Our suggestion is to proceed to the nearest sitio taxi stand, which is normally in the vicinity of all stations. Another option is to go to a nearby safe public place, such as a restaurant or hotel, and call for a radio taxi (telephone number 5516-6020). Make sure you know your exact location, and provide the number you are calling from. Ask the patrons for it. You can also use the public transportation system (peseras, buses), as long as you always use common sense and have previously determined the routes you will take.

Mexico City Subway Hours of Operation

• Monday to Friday From 5 a.m. to midnight.
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• Saturday From 6 a.m. to midnight.
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• Sunday and Holidays From 7 a.m. to midnight.
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• Cost & Special Services
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• Your subway ticket will cost 2 pesos (US$0.20!). Senior citizens with INSEN identification and handicapped users are exempt from payment.

General Information

All four bus terrminals in Mexico City (East, West, North and South) offer routes to every point in the Mexican Republic and are located on metro lines. Mexico City International Airport is also on the metro system. If you consider the extremely valuable service the metro provides to the people of Mexico City, you will realize this massive transportation network is a splendid example of speed, safety and quality - and boasts one of the cheapest ticket prices in the world!

Finally, thanks to our contacts within the subway system, here is the information requested by our readers: The current length of the subway is 193.383 kms. The total number of stations is 175. The daily number of users, Monday to Friday, is in the range of 4.7 million (significantly less during the weekends).

By Mario Gonzalez-Roman, a retired Foreign Service National Security Advisor to the United States Embassy, currently a private Security Consultant, columnist at www.securitycornermexico.com

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