Due to high temperatures, the water in the El Palote dam has begun to evaporate, leading to only 21% of its capacity currently being available. This situation has created muddy and marshy conditions on the shores, posing a risk to the safety of attendees at the International Balloon Festival (FIG) to be held at the location.
In a commission session, the members of the City Council have approved an increase in parking fees for FIG visitors, justifying it as an inflation adjustment. It was established that cars will pay 166 pesos, vans 250 pesos, and buses 333 pesos per space.
Authorities have issued an alert to visitors, recommending avoiding entry into areas near the reservoir of the dam due to poor ground conditions. Warning signs have been placed in risk areas, such as camping zones and launch sites, security personnel presence has been increased, and safe areas have been defined to ensure the safety of attendees.
During this year’s edition of FIG, the installation of more than 200 hot air balloons is expected in the Beach Zone of the El Palote dam, despite its low water level due to lack of rain and the presence of illegal embankments and dams that have affected its level. The inauguration ceremony will feature participation from the Secretariat of National Defense.
Regarding facilities, the pneumatic train service will cost 36 pesos per trip, and 1,949 parking spaces have been made available in the balconies and north sector of the Metropolitan Park. In addition, 10 remote parking areas have been authorized to meet demand during the festival, although the exact number of spaces available in these alternative locations has not been specified. Despite the increase in fees, the number of remote parking areas remains similar to previous editions.
