Medellín Prepares for New Round of 'Pico y Placa' Restrictions
Medellín is continuing its efforts to manage urban mobility with the implementation of the 'Pico y Placa' restriction for the week of March 25-28, 2025. This measure, aimed at reducing vehicle congestion and improving air quality, will affect thousands of residents and visitors. According to Danna Sofía Suárez Galeano, a journalist for Noticias Caracol, the initiative seeks to «rationalize the use of the roads» during peak hours (Suárez Galeano, 2024).
What is 'Pico y Placa'?
'Pico y Placa' is a traffic management strategy that restricts vehicle circulation based on the last digit of the license plate. This restriction is applied on specific days and times, with the goal of reducing the number of vehicles on the streets during rush hour. The city administration hopes to «alleviate the tension from vehicle load» and promote the use of public transport, explains Suárez Galeano.
Schedule for the Week of March 25-28, 2025
During this week, the restriction will be in effect from Tuesday to Friday, between 5:00 a.m. and 8:00 p.m. Here's how it will work:
- Tuesday, March 25: Plates ending in 2 and 8.
- Wednesday, March 26: Plates ending in 5 and 9.
- Thursday, March 27: Plates ending in 1 and 7.
- Friday, March 28: Plates ending in 0 and 6.
For motorcycles, motocarros, camperos, and cuatrimotos, the restriction applies based on the first digit of the license plate.
'Pico y Placa' for Taxis
Taxis will also be subject to 'Pico y Placa' with a slightly different schedule:
- Tuesday, March 25: Plates ending in 0.
- Wednesday, March 26: Plates ending in 1.
- Thursday, March 27: Plates ending in 7.
- Friday, March 28: Plates ending in 3.
Penalties for Non-Compliance
Ignoring 'Pico y Placa' restrictions can result in significant fines and vehicle immobilization. The fine is approximately $711,750 COP (around 15 current legal daily minimum wages). Therefore, staying informed is essential.
The Importance of 'Pico y Placa'
The 'Pico y Placa' measure is fundamental for managing mobility in Medellín. Besides reducing congestion, it also contributes to:
- Reducing pollutant emissions.
- Decreasing accident risks.
- Encouraging the use of public transport and alternative mobility options.
In a city with a rapidly growing vehicle fleet, 'Pico y Placa' is a critical tool for maintaining efficiency and safety on the roads. The restrictions for the first semester of 2025 are regulated by Decree 071 of 2025, which establishes the rotation and regulations of the measure, aiming to improve traffic and citizen mobility.
Exemptions and Excluded Roads
Some roads and areas are exempt from the 'Pico y Placa' restriction. These include:
- Avenida Regional
- Vía a Las Palmas
- Vía a Occidente
- Connections of Avenida 33 and Calle 10
Additionally, the *corregimientos* of Medellín are also exempt. Drivers should verify the specific roads not covered by the measure to avoid penalties.
Tips for Drivers
For those who need to move around during the restriction days, consider these alternatives:
- Use Public Transportation: Medellín has an efficient public transportation system, including the metro, buses, and trams.
- Carpooling: Sharing a vehicle with colleagues or friends with similar routes can be a practical and economical solution.
- Flexible Schedules: If possible, adjust departure and arrival times to avoid peak hours.
By adhering to 'Pico y Placa' and exploring alternative transportation options, residents and visitors can contribute to a more fluid and sustainable Medellín. Stay informed, plan your trips, and help improve the city's mobility.
Reference
Suárez Galeano, D. S. (2024, January 12). Danna Sofía Suárez Galeano. Noticias Caracol. Retrieved from https://www.noticiascaracol.com/autor/danna-sofia-suarez-galeano
