More than 15 meters of coastline have been lost in some areas of Yucatán over the last 10 years, reveals José Luis González Pérez, State Undersecretary of Sustainable Development.
“This loss not only affects the ecosystem, which is vital for sea turtle nesting, but it is also causing damage to homes located near the shore,” he says.
Study on Coastal Erosion Nearing Completion
The official shares that today or tomorrow, Wednesday, they expect to receive the results of the studies that have been carried out over the last year in order to begin working on concrete solutions to the serious problem of erosion, which is not exclusive to Yucatán.
The undersecretary points out that this is a problem that has gained strength and affects both the environment and coastal communities. For that reason, they are conducting a study covering the area from Progreso to Telchac Puerto, as well as the actions that will be implemented to address the issue.
One of the strategies used by coastal homeowners to stop the advance of the sea
González Pérez indicates that this study is being carried out in collaboration with the National Autonomous University of Mexico (UNAM) and specialized companies, and that it is currently in its final phase.
“We are working on a count of all the structures in the area, many of which do not have authorization. This includes geotubes and groins that are affecting the natural flow of ocean currents,” he explains.
Seeking Strategies to Solve Coastal Erosion
The undersecretary highlights the importance of this study in identifying the appropriate solution to the problem of coastal obstruction.
“Once we have all the information, we will be able to implement, for example, a bypass system to transfer sand and mitigate erosion in the long term,” he details.
When asked about the most affected areas, González Pérez mentions Chicxulub as the most severely impacted, in addition to Chelem, which is also facing serious problems.
“Erosion occurs when structures are placed without adequate knowledge, generating a domino effect that worsens the problem,” he warns.
Call for All Sectors to Join Efforts
He also emphasizes the need to involve the community in these efforts.
“It is essential that all sectors of society participate, because coastal erosion affects all of us. The sustainability of our coastlines is an issue that we cannot ignore,” he stresses.
The undersecretary also committed to sharing the study results within a month, which will make it possible to define the actions to be taken.
“The concrete solution will be ready very soon, approximately one month after receiving the results, and we will begin implementing the necessary measures to protect our coastlines,” he reports.
Studies on Erosion / In Search of Solutions
This week, a study on coastal erosion will be delivered to the Secretariat of Sustainable Development.
Focus
José Luis González Pérez, State Undersecretary of Sustainable Development, emphasizes the urgency of addressing coastal erosion in Yucatán “with an approach focused on collaboration among government entities, academic institutions, and the community.”
Protection
“The goal is to develop an effective plan that guarantees the protection of the environment and the safety of residents in coastal areas.”
Timeline
“The coming weeks will be crucial in determining the direction of this project and its impact on beach conservation and the well-being of the population.”
Impact
Chicxulub Puerto and Chelem are among the communities most affected by coastal erosion.
Source: yucatan
