CDMX, city of noise

In the heart of Mexico City, noise pollution has become an everyday reality, affecting residents and visitors alike. The capital’s streets echo with the constant hum of traffic, the blaring music from bars and nightclubs, and the persistent sounds of daily life. According to reports, the city's noise levels have reached alarming proportions, particularly during major events such as the World Cup, which intensified the issue. Jonathan Torres, who works in a store located on Calle Allende in the Historic Center, described how the increased presence of fans with loud instruments has made the area even more noisy. The problem extends beyond just vehicles and commercial establishments. Street performers, known as organilleros, contribute significantly to the cacophony, along with the sound of carts selling traditional foods like camotes (sweet potatoes). Residents and shoppers, such as Mónica, who visited the Historic Center for shopping, noted that while some cars are absent due to restrictions, the volume from street artists using loudspeakers still causes discomfort. She suggested that local authorities could engage with these performers to encourage them to reduce their volume, especially since they often seek attention through amplified sound. According to data from the Procuraduría Ambiental y del Ordenamiento Territorial (PAOT), the environmental authority, the city receives an average of three complaints per day regarding noise pollution. From January 1st to July 1st of this year, a total of 613 complaints were registered, a number comparable to the same period in 2025. Mónica Viétnica Alegre González, a PAOT official, acknowledged that noise levels in certain parts of the city remain problematic. She pointed out that current legislation, specifically Norma 005/2013, sets limits on decibel levels during specific hours, no more than 63–65 dB between 6:00 and 8:00 a.m., and between 60–62 dB from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m., but she emphasized that these standards may no longer be sufficient. The Law of Commercial Establishments in the City further outlines noise regulations, stipulating that outdoor areas should not exceed 85 dB between 6:00 and 8:00 p.m., and 75 dB from 8:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m. However, officials recognize that existing norms need updating. González mentioned that current measurement processes for both noise and vibrations are outdated and require revision. She highlighted the importance of addressing mobile sources of noise, which currently lack regulation, as a key priority for future policy improvements. Vibrations, she added, can exacerbate the effects of noise, contributing to overall discomfort for residents. While the city already has some guidelines, there is a clear need for more comprehensive measures. The PAOT is working on developing new proposals that would better address the complexities of modern urban noise pollution, including the impact of mobile sources such as transportation and industrial equipment. As the city continues to grapple with its noise challenges, efforts to improve regulations and enforcement are ongoing. With increasing awareness of the health impacts of prolonged exposure to high-decibel environments, local authorities are under pressure to take decisive action. Whether through stricter enforcement of existing laws or the introduction of new policies, the goal remains the same: to create a livable environment for all citizens amidst the ever-present sounds of Mexico City.