Ciudad Juárez, March 24, 2026 – Motorists heading towards Ciudad Juárez are encountering extensive delays and long queues on the Pan-American Highway, as federal authorities have implemented multiple checkpoints. These operations, occurring just days before the start of the Holy Week holiday period, are causing significant traffic congestion.
Extensive Delays at Precos Checkpoint
One of the primary bottlenecks is located at a point known as Precos, where Mexican Army personnel are maintaining a highway checkpoint to inspect drivers en route to Ciudad Juárez. According to motorists, vehicle queues at this location can extend up to three kilometers, resulting in waiting times that may exceed 40 minutes before they can continue their journey.
This situation primarily impacts drivers traveling from the south towards Ciudad Juárez, but it also affects intercity buses and cargo trucks, which are required to stop for inspection by authorities. At this control point, military personnel ask motorists to open their vehicle trunks and answer questions regarding their origin, destination, and the purpose of their trip. Common inquiries include their point of origin, activities undertaken during their visit, and their intended destination, with official identification, such as an INE credential, sometimes requested. Once the review is complete and the provided information verified, military personnel allow drivers to proceed either to Ciudad Juárez or to international crossings bound for the United States.
Additional Checkpoint Near Samalayuca
In addition to the Precos checkpoint, personnel from the Secretariat of Security and Citizen Protection have been observed at another location on the Pan-American Highway. This second operation is situated on the northbound to southbound stretch, past the town of Samalayuca. Here, agents close one lane to conduct random inspections of private vehicles, passenger buses, and cargo trucks. Inspections at this point also generate considerable vehicle queues for those heading south, further extending travel times for commuters.
The problem becomes particularly pronounced during the afternoon hours, when vehicular flow on the Pan-American Highway increases, and drivers advance at a crawl to reach the inspection points. While some motorists find the inspections excessive, they acknowledge the necessity of these operations for enhancing security, expressing concern that during the holiday season, reviews may intensify, leading to even longer queues.
Impact on Local Travel and Economy
The increased travel times and congestion are not only an inconvenience for individuals but also have potential implications for local commerce and logistics, especially for cargo trucks that are vital for the region’s economy. The timing of these operations, just before a major holiday, suggests a heightened focus on security, which could be related to efforts to control illicit activities or ensure public safety during a period of increased travel.
Local authorities have yet to issue specific advisories or alternative routes to mitigate the impact of these checkpoints. Drivers are advised to plan their journeys accordingly, allowing for extra travel time, especially if their routes include segments of the Pan-American Highway leading into Ciudad Juárez.
