Thanks to concerted efforts by authorities, the beaches of Playa del Carmen remained remarkably clean and free from sargassum during Holy Week, a significant milestone for the vacation spot.
According to Irving Rafael Lili Madrigal, director of the Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), the ongoing cleanup initiatives paid off, allowing tourists and locals to enjoy crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. Beaches such as Pelícanos, Punta Esmeralda, and the certified Playa 88 were largely free of sargassum, while areas like Fundadores and Cisne concentrated the macroalgae.
Lili Madrigal emphasized that the early and continuous cleanup system was instrumental in maintaining the town’s beaches in top condition. Social media posts showcasing Playa del Carmen at its best further highlighted the success of these efforts.
Between January and April, an impressive 4,500 tons of sargassum were removed from the area using specialized barriers that direct the macroalgae to designated collection sites such as Cisne Beach. Daily collections at this site reached up to 80 tons, facilitated by dump trucks.
Despite a gradual increase in sargassum, authorities have been able to respond efficiently, thereby avoiding the need for a contingency declaration. This proactive approach has enabled tourists and locals alike to enjoy the coastline in optimal conditions, further solidifying Playa del Carmen’s reputation as a top destination.
Source: Quadratin
