La vida entre dos tierras “IztapaNeza”

The boroughs of Iztapalapa and Nezahualcóyotl, located on opposite sides of Avenida Texcoco in the eastern part of Mexico City, face significant challenges related to water waste due to daily leaks. According to reports, these areas experience up to 23 water leaks per day, contributing to ongoing issues of infrastructure neglect and public service deficiencies.

The area known as "IztapaNeza" is characterized by its dense population and shared problems between the two jurisdictions. Despite being separated by just a few centimeters of concrete, residents on both sides encounter similar issues regarding services and lack of attention from authorities. The situation along Avenida Texcoco, which stretches over eight kilometers, highlights the common struggles faced by the inhabitants of this region.

Residents have expressed concerns about the deteriorating conditions in their neighborhoods. María de Los Ángeles López, a resident of Nezahualcóyotl, described how the weekly market occupies parts of the sidewalk and street, leading to unsanitary conditions such as urination in corners and accumulation of trash. She noted that during rainy days, water enters homes because the market stalls block drainage systems, and there is no subsequent cleanup. Similarly, Rosa Hernández from Iztapalapa mentioned that rainwater collects in the median strip and flows towards houses, exacerbating the problem of poor drainage and sanitation.

Security issues also plague the area. Juan Ramírez recounted incidents of theft near the market where perpetrators could easily escape into the adjacent jurisdiction. He emphasized the confusion among residents regarding the responsibility of local authorities, stating that each side claims the other should handle the issue. This division has led to a lack of effective action against crime and disorder in the region.

Elena Vargas highlighted the absence of functional street lighting along the median strip, making the avenue dangerous at night. She pointed out that broken bottles left by vendors and frequent fights contribute to an unsafe environment. Despite repeated complaints, she indicated that no substantial changes have occurred, underscoring the frustration of living in a liminal space where neither jurisdiction feels fully responsible.

Carlos Mendoza from Iztapalapa described the persistent violence within the markets, particularly on Sundays when conflicts arise from alcohol consumption. He noted the presence of individuals selling stolen goods without fear of repercussions, adding that it is unclear whether the police officers present belong to Nezahualcóyotl or Iztapalapa, resulting in inaction.

Patricia Gómez emphasized the long-standing nature of these issues, noting that children cannot play outside during market days due to the chaos and risk involved. She called for improved services such as road repairs, drainage systems, and enhanced security measures, stressing that the current state of affairs has persisted for decades.

Both mayors, Adolfo Cerqueda of Nezahualcóyotl and Aleida Alavez of Iztapalapa, acknowledged the structural problems affecting their respective jurisdictions along Avenida Texcoco. They identified the large weekly markets as focal points of violence and disorder, highlighting the need for collaborative efforts to address these shared challenges. The markets, considered some of the largest in the Valley of Mexico, attract thousands of people but have become breeding grounds for conflict and neglect.

Efforts are underway to implement programs aimed at reclaiming public spaces and improving order along Avenida Texcoco. However, the complexity of managing shared responsibilities between two municipalities continues to pose obstacles. As the community grapples with these intertwined issues, the call for coordinated action remains urgent to ensure better living conditions for all residents in this densely populated region.