A tourist van from the “Cristalino” hotel in Quintana Roo slid and nearly sank into Laguna Bacalar, prompting immediate intervention from local authorities. The incident occurred around 1:00 p.m. and involved the Civil Protection, Ecology, and Inspection Departments, led by councilman José Alfredo “Chepe” Contreras.
Romel Cano, Director of Ecology, confirmed that the Cristalino Hotel has been closed due to lack of proper documentation. The van, bearing license plates UVV-100-J from Quintana Roo, is currently under the hotel’s custody. While the exact cause of the vehicle’s slide is unknown, it is suspected that the handbrake either failed or was not engaged. The hotel is situated on a steep slope, which contributed to the incident.
The Ecology Department has initiated administrative procedures as one of the two authorities responsible for the closure. The hotel is also facing a significant fine, although the amount has not been disclosed to avoid interfering with the legal process.
Investigations are underway to assess potential damage to the lagoon, including possible oil or gasoline spills that could harm the area’s main natural attraction. Fortunately, the accident did not affect any stromatolites, ancient rock formations that are ecologically significant.
Mayor José Alfredo Contreras condemned the incident and assured that measures will be implemented to prevent similar occurrences in the future. He emphasized that such events are unprecedented in the municipality’s history and that steps will be taken to ensure they do not happen again.
Source: Yahoo News
