A recent report by German television station NTV has sparked controversy over the Maya Train project, a flagship initiative of Mexico’s President Andrés Manuel López Obrador. The 4T’s megaproject, designed to promote tourism through the Mexican jungle, has been criticized for its environmental impact.
In a scathing report, NTV describes the Maya Train as an “environmental horror,” highlighting instances of water pollution and harm to local wildlife. The television station’s team toured the project from Cancún, observing firsthand the effects of the construction on the surrounding ecosystem.
“We went aboard this transport, and our first impression was that there are sections between stations that are still under construction,” said an NTV reporter in a video presentation. “We don’t see many tourists, and there are many empty seats.”
The report emphasizes concerns raised by environmentalists about the project’s pressure on wildlife and water pollution. The Mexican government has reportedly used a decree to prevent countermeasures from being taken.
NTV met with local environmental activists, who shared findings of diesel residue in the water and damage to species caused by the construction of the Maya Train. The report also includes footage of stalactite caves affected by the project, where 15,000 piles supporting the train have been installed. Activists claim that for a year now, they have found traces of diesel and cement in the water.
“These piles are the result of a drilling operation that reaches 25 meters deep,” said an activist. “The construction contaminates the water where fish and turtles live, as well as other jungle animals.”
Images from the Jaguar Regional Wildlife Center show jaguars, pumas, and anteaters entering the caves to drink water. Environmental activists express shock at the destruction of intact nature for a tourist train.
Key Findings:
– Water pollution and harm to local wildlife caused by the Maya Train project
– Diesel residue found in water near construction sites
– Damage to species and ecosystems reported by environmentalists
– 15,000 piles supporting the train installed through stalactite caves
– Activists claim contamination of water where fish and turtles live
The controversy surrounding the Maya Train project has sparked debate over its environmental impact and the Mexican government’s handling of the issue.
Source: Politico
