A new environmental alert has emerged in Chabihau, Yucatán, after residents documented work involving heavy machinery in an area of coastal dunes in the municipality of Yobaín.
The presence of machinery raised concern among residents because of the importance of the Chabihau dunes as a natural barrier against erosion and weather-related phenomena, as well as their role as habitat for various species.
Profepa investigates damage to Chabihau dunes
Following the complaints, the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) intervened, placed closure seals in the affected area, and launched an investigation to determine the extent of the damage and possible responsibility.
Preliminarily, the impacted area exceeds 400 square meters, although the environmental authority will be responsible for officially determining the affected area.
Wilmer Cetz, the municipal commissioner, said that an affected area of approximately 20 by 20 meters was being considered due to the removal of debris and other materials.
“We would consider that the area being affected was 20 by 20 meters due to the removal of debris and everything that was on that property.”
He also indicated that the work reached areas associated with turtle nesting and the presence of endemic plants.
Residents warn about the importance of coastal dunes
Residents of Chabihau expressed concern about the potential consequences of removing the dunes during weather-related phenomena.
Felipa Maldonado, a resident of the area, warned that the dunes function as a barrier for the community and also serve as a nesting area for turtles.
“If the dunes are removed, when a hurricane comes, it will enter the community more quickly.”
The machinery was stopped after the alert, although traces of the work carried out on the coastal dunes remained.
Chabihau case follows controversy in Chuburná
The case comes weeks after the controversy surrounding interventions in the Chuburná dunes, also located along the Yucatán coast.
In Chabihau, residents and environmental groups have also raised concerns related to damage to the mangrove, land filling, and construction in the coastal area.
Profepa will continue its investigation to officially determine the extent of the damage and establish possible responsibility for the work carried out on the dunes.
Source: unotv
