Progreso’s Malecón at Risk as Coastal Erosion Advances

Mérida, MX — The coastline of Progreso is once again facing the relentless force of marine erosion, which in recent days has reached the traditional malecón, jeopardizing the retaining wall of the tourist zone. The phenomenon has been exacerbated by increased wave activity linked to tropical disturbances, raising concerns among authorities and local businesses about infrastructure damage and public safety.

Erosion Reaches Critical Tourist Area

Until recently, the most visible effects of erosion were concentrated near Calle 56 and 21, one of the most vulnerable areas since Hurricane Milton struck in October of last year. However, the erosion line has now advanced to Calle 60 and 19, directly at the entrance of the historic malecón, adjacent to the iconic “Progreso” photo landmark and the well-known “Casa del Pastel.”

Merchants and tourism operators in the area have expressed alarm, warning that the loss of beachfront not only harms the port’s image but also threatens key structures. The newly affected zone lies at the heart of the malecón’s tourist activity, drawing thousands of visitors weekly and during peak vacation seasons. Persistent waves have begun weakening the retaining wall’s foundation, raising fears of more severe damage without prompt intervention.

A Decades-Old Threat Resurfaces

The erosion, previously confined to the stretch between Calle 56 and the former Cocoteros club toward Chicxulub Puerto, has now encroached upon central Progreso. Local tourism providers recall that the last time waves struck this section of the malecón with similar intensity was over two decades ago during Hurricane Isidoro in September 2002, when part of the wall collapsed under powerful surf.

Residents and business owners are urgently calling on municipal and state authorities to implement protective measures, proposing solutions ranging from geobarriers to coastal restructuring before irreversible damage occurs. The erosion not only endangers infrastructure but also the economic vitality of the port, which relies heavily on coastal tourism.