Mexico City, May 20 – Smart public restrooms, part of Mexico City’s preparations to host the 2026 FIFA World Cup, have been subjected to vandalism even before their official inauguration. The facilities, located on Chapultepec Avenue, show signs of scratches, accumulated trash in their vicinity, and attempts to open them and remove protective coverings.
Vandalism Before Operation
The Mexico City government has been installing these intelligent public restrooms in high-traffic tourist areas across the capital, mirroring similar initiatives in other global cities. However, those on Chapultepec Avenue, intended to serve the influx of visitors for the upcoming World Cup, have already been defaced. Images show graffiti with anti-installation messages, damaged planters, and deteriorated benches in the surrounding area.
These restrooms are designed to include an automatic cleaning system after each use, requiring connections to the hydraulic network. Despite their advanced features, their premature damage raises concerns about maintenance and security ahead of the major international event.
Public Need vs. Targeting Tourists
Informal workers in the area acknowledge the pressing need for public restrooms, especially for those who spend long hours on the streets and often have to pay seven pesos or more for private, often unsanitary, facilities. Alberto Mondragón, a route checker near the Sevilla Metro station, stated that the new service would be beneficial, highlighting the deficiencies and lack of cleanliness in existing public options.
However, there’s skepticism about whether these smart restrooms will primarily serve foreign tourists. Mondragón and others believe they will be predominantly used by the local population. Héctor Reyes pointed out a lack of strategic planning in their placement, suggesting that more crowded tourist spots like the Estela de Luz and the Angel of Independence would have been more appropriate locations. “This side is more for national people, people who come for work,” he noted, referring to Chapultepec Avenue.
Features and Concerns
The smart restrooms are equipped with external indicators showing whether they are free, occupied, or out of service. Each use will have a maximum duration of 15 minutes, and minors must be accompanied by an adult. They also feature automatic handwashing stations with soap, water, and drying capabilities, though the payment method has not yet been specified.
A significant concern raised by Mondragón is the need for constant surveillance to maintain the good condition and functionality of the facilities. The current state of vandalism, even before opening, underscores this challenge.
Official Silence on Details
As of now, capital authorities have not disclosed the total number of smart public restrooms to be installed across the city, nor have they provided exact locations or an official inauguration date for the Chapultepec Avenue units. This lack of information adds to the uncertainty surrounding the project’s implementation and effectiveness.
The incident highlights the ongoing struggle with public infrastructure maintenance and respect in urban environments, especially when new projects aim to cater to international events. The early vandalism of these facilities poses a setback for Mexico City’s efforts to present a modern and welcoming image for the 2026 World Cup.
