Mexico City's Zócalo access severely limited by CNTE protest, causing long queues

Access to Mexico City's historic Zócalo has become a bottleneck, with long lines forming on Francisco I. Madero street as authorities implement strict entry controls. The restrictions are in place due to a continuous protest by the National Union of Education Workers (CNTE) in the city's historic center.

Since Wednesday, a controlled access point has been established at the intersection of Madero and Simón Bolívar streets. Here, individuals are processed one by one, leading to significant delays and confusion. Even tourists, like a couple from the United States with their luggage, struggled to navigate the situation, unsure how to reach their hotel located within the restricted perimeter.

While Madero street is the primary controlled entry, other access points exist on Tacuba and República de Brasil streets. Local government personnel direct pedestrians, emphasizing that only foot traffic is allowed. Further security checkpoints manned by the Secretariat of Citizen Security (SSC) filter who can enter the Plaza de la Constitución.

Currently, the only individuals being allowed into the Zócalo are those intending to visit the Metropolitan Cathedral. Most businesses within the immediate vicinity of the square have their shutters down, indicating a significant disruption to daily commerce. The controlled pedestrian circuit, which extends from Tacuba to Cinco de Febrero street, is also subject to strict guidance, with personnel using loudspeakers to direct people to the correct entry points.