The Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) confirmed via its social media channels that the “Perfect Day” mega-water park project in Mahahual, Quintana Roo, has been “canceled in accordance with the law,” following weeks of public scrutiny and environmental protests.
The agency issued this statement following protests held on May 21 outside its facilities, where activist groups and citizens demanded the presentation of the legal ruling that would officially substantiate the cancellation.
Semarnat Affirms Protection of Mahahual Was a Priority
In the post published by the agency, it was reiterated that the protection of the reefs, mangroves, and ecosystems of the Mexican Caribbean constitutes one of the country’s key environmental priorities.
Furthermore, Semarnat accompanied the announcement with a video explaining that, from the very beginning of the evaluation of the Perfect Day Mexico project, a “rigorous technical, scientific, and legal” process was maintained.
“Mahahual is home to a portion of one of the most important reef systems on the planet,” the agency noted, adding that mangroves, rainforests, and species deemed fundamental to Mexico’s biodiversity were also taken into account.
The environmental authority added that, during the analysis of the project, thousands of public comments were considered, as well as information submitted by local communities, specialists, and environmental organizations.
Activist Groups Protested Outside Semarnat Over Mahahual
Hours before the official announcement, a demonstration by environmental activist groups caused traffic disruptions on Ejército Nacional Avenue in Mexico City, directly outside Semarnat’s offices.
The protesters demanded that the cancellation of the mega-tourism project be substantiated by an official document, rather than relying solely on public statements made by government officials.
The protest partially brought traffic to a standstill in both directions on the thoroughfare, as members of environmental organizations reiterated their opposition to the tourism development planned for Mahahual.
The Perfect Day Mexico project sparked opposition among environmental groups and residents of Quintana Roo due to its potential adverse effects on coastal ecosystems located in close proximity to the Mesoamerican Reef System. Over the past few months, specialists and organizations have raised concerns regarding impacts on corals, mangroves, marine wildlife, and the region’s environmental balance.
Source: unotv
