Prior to the start of the rainy season in San Cristóbal de las Casas, more than 20 workers from the Municipal Cleaning and Ecology departments, along with volunteers, began a cleanup and dredging campaign in rivers, streams, and flood-prone areas to prevent flooding in the city.
The participating personnel urged residents not to throw trash in the streets, as during rains, debris is carried by the currents and ends up in the river that runs through the city, increasing the risk of blockages and other damage.
According to those in charge of the work, up to two tons of waste could be removed daily from the Amarillo River alone, where the cleanup began. This river is considered one of the most polluted in the Jovel Valley, as it flows through the city from the east, north, and west, finally emptying into the tunnel located south of San Cristóbal.
The cleanup efforts are taking place on the Amarillo River, near the Municipal Sports Services (SEDEM), where approximately two tons of solid waste were removed on the first day. These efforts are part of environmental protection strategies aimed at minimizing environmental impact, improving quality of life, and promoting a more sustainable environment.
Authorities reported that the work includes cleaning riverbanks and removing solid waste and organic matter that were obstructing the riverbed, in order to reduce the risk of flooding during the rainy season. On the first day, bags of household garbage, animal remains, and logs were found, causing visible blockages. Therefore, they reiterated their call to the public to avoid throwing waste into rivers and streams to prevent environmental damage and risks to the population.
Source: oem
