The constant blackouts in the southern part of Quintana Roo have caused significant losses for businesses and families, severely affecting the local economy. Hotel and restaurant entrepreneurs are demanding immediate solutions from the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE).
The brutal losses caused by the constant blackouts in the southern part of Quintana Roo have raised alarms among hotel and restaurant entrepreneurs. In the past ten months, the situation has been particularly critical in Bacalar, where power outages are a daily occurrence, affecting both the coastal area and the city. Raúl Andrade, president of the Association of Hotels of Central and Southern Quintana Roo, has pointed out that the causes of these blackouts are diverse, ranging from falling branches to overheating and burning transformers.
The Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) has been criticized by entrepreneurs, who argue that the entity lacks budget and has not fulfilled its mission to expand and modernize the power grid. Andrade recalled that the electrical substation for the central area of Chetumal, which would have increased the power supply in the capital, was not only postponed but is now abandoned. This situation has left the city without a short-term solution, generating uncertainty and concern among residents and entrepreneurs.
Esteban Mera, leader of the National Chamber of the Seasoned Food Industry (Canirac), has also expressed his frustration. Last weekend, a blackout during sporting events that would have helped the sector recover economically was catastrophic. Guests not only canceled their stay but also demanded refunds, affecting not just one business but the entire city as a tourist destination. Mera emphasized that opportunities disappeared because people left, and businesses were left in a critical situation.
Both spokespersons have announced that they will call a meeting to determine what actions to take, as the situation is unsustainable. The operation of hundreds of businesses is affected, and revenues are significantly reduced. Payroll payments are unavoidable, as are tax payments, adding an additional burden to entrepreneurs who are already struggling to stay afloat.
The situation in Quintana Roo is not an isolated case. In August, Cancún suffered a blackout that caused economic losses for 70% of the restaurants affiliated with Canirac, as they were unable to offer service. Additionally, damage to refrigeration equipment was reported, further aggravating the situation. These events highlight the urgent need for a comprehensive and sustainable solution for the region’s power supply.
The lack of investment in electrical infrastructure and the inability of the CFE to respond to the growing demand for energy are putting not only the local economy at risk but also the reputation of Quintana Roo as a top-tier tourist destination. Entrepreneurs are demanding answers and concrete actions to prevent the situation from deteriorating further.
Tourism is one of the main sources of income for Quintana Roo, and any interruption in the power supply has a direct impact on the local economy. Blackouts not only affect businesses but also the families who depend on these incomes for their daily sustenance. The situation is critical and requires immediate intervention by the competent authorities.
“The community expects the CFE to take concrete measures to resolve this crisis and ensure a stable and reliable energy supply. The economy of Quintana Roo heavily depends on tourism, and any interruption in the energy supply has a direct impact on the region’s ability to attract and retain visitors. It is time for the authorities to take action and provide the necessary solutions to protect the future of Quintana Roo.”
Source: Debate
