A group of environmental activists has sounded the alarm over the opening of a new road connecting to Section 5 of the Mayan Train project in Quintana Roo, Mexico. The collective, known as Sélvame del Tren, claims that the road was opened without the required environmental impact assessment or declaration, violating Mexican law.
The new road connects Federal Highway 307 with the Tulum-Coba Highway and passes through the jungle, affecting a protected area of forest land. According to the activists, the cleared forest is home to protected species and has significant archaeological, geological, and biological value.
Sélvame del Tren members have attached photographs of the georeferenced layout, extension, and aerial views of the road to their official complaint filed with the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa). The collective is requesting that Profepa send inspectors to verify the damage caused and whether any environmental permits were issued.
The activists have accused the Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SIC) and the Ministry of National Defense (Sedena) of violating environmental law by proceeding with the project without proper authorization. They are calling on federal authorities to “stop the devastation” and find alternatives that guarantee the environmental health of their home.
The complaint highlights concern about the impact of the Mayan Train project on local ecosystems, including the aquifer of Sac Actún, which is considered a vital system for the region’s water supply. Hydrologist Guillermo D. Christy has expressed fears that the new road will lead to increased pressure on the aquifer and potentially even water stress.
The situation has sparked an urgent call from cave explorers and advocates to prioritize environmental conservation and respect for Mexican law. They emphasize the importance of protecting the remaining 5% of the ecosystem and preserving nature’s role in sustaining life.
Source: El Universal
