Leona Vicario Ejidos Protest Land Closures in Puerto Morelos

Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — Ejidatarios (communal landowners) from Leona Vicario blocked Federal Highway 307 on Thursday to protest the closure of several plots of land by authorities. The demonstrators demanded a dialogue with government officials to resolve the dispute, which they claim threatens their livelihoods.

Roadblock Disrupts Traffic for Hours

The protest began in the early morning hours, with approximately 50 ejidatarios setting up barricades near the entrance to Puerto Morelos. The blockade caused significant traffic delays along the key Cancún-Tulum corridor, stranding tourists and local commuters for over three hours.

Federal and state police, along with representatives from the National Guard, were deployed to monitor the situation. Authorities negotiated with protesters, who agreed to clear the highway by midday after securing a commitment from officials to address their grievances.

Ejidatarios Claim Unfair Enforcement

The ejidatarios allege that municipal and federal agencies abruptly closed multiple plots of land without prior notice or due process. According to community leaders, the closures were carried out under the pretext of environmental protection but lacked proper justification.

"We are not against conservation, but these actions were taken without consulting us," said one ejidatario during the protest. "These lands are our only source of income, and shutting them down without warning leaves our families without food."

The affected lands are reportedly used for agriculture and small-scale tourism ventures, which many in the community rely on for survival. Protesters insist they have legal rights to the properties under Mexico’s ejido system, which grants collective land ownership to rural communities.

Government Pledges Dialogue

Following the protest, Puerto Morelos municipal authorities acknowledged the ejidatarios' concerns and pledged to organize a meeting with state and federal agencies to review the closures.

"We understand the frustration of the Leona Vicario community," said a municipal spokesperson. "The government is committed to finding a balanced solution that respects both environmental regulations and the rights of landowners."

No further protests have been announced, but community leaders warned that they will escalate demonstrations if their demands are not met. The situation remains under close watch by local authorities.