Baja California launches cultural training program and senior taxi discounts amid infrastructure and water challenges

The Baja California state government announced a new cultural training program offering more than 200 artistic courses and activities across the seven municipalities, with 41 sessions free for vulnerable groups. Classes begin on 1 September at the state Arts Centers in Tijuana, Mexicali, Ensenada, Playas de Rosarito, Tecate, San Felipe and San Quintín.

Governor Marina del Pilar Avila Olmeda also signed a decree granting a 30 percent discount on vehicle‑related fees for taxi operators aged 60 or older and those with disabilities. The benefit covers permit renewals, circulation‑card fees and mechanical inspections and is valid through 30 December, requiring official ID and, for disabled applicants, a medical certificate.

The Comisión Estatal de Servicios Públicos de Tijuana (CESPT) reported two separate operational issues. It closed two upward lanes on the El Florido distributor after detecting a 60‑cubic‑metre underground cavity during a hydraulic‑pipeline project, restricting traffic for safety while stabilization work proceeds. In a related statement, CESPT acknowledged that 32 colonies in Tijuana and Playas de Rosarito still experience intermittent or absent water service, despite a 95 percent overall system recovery following a July pipe rupture that initially affected 526 colonies.

Additionally, Mexicali authorities launched a social‑reordering operation at the Zona Centro border checkpoint to remove unauthorized persons and street vendors, improve safety, and protect vulnerable groups with the assistance of municipal, state and federal agencies.