Bacalar’s Rural Roads Left in Ruins Amid Tourism Push

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — While Bacalar Mayor José "Chepe" Contreras Méndez touts his administration's achievements in tourism and public events, rural communities in the municipality continue to endure deteriorating roads and a lack of infrastructure improvements. Nearly three years into his term, residents say promises of progress remain unfulfilled.

Broken Roads, Unmet Promises

Families in Bacalar’s rural areas face daily challenges due to severely damaged and often impassable roads. Mayor Contreras Méndez has repeatedly blamed past administrations for the neglect, but critics argue his government has failed to deliver tangible solutions.

During a recent statement, the mayor claimed the state’s Public Works Secretariat had conducted a survey to secure funding for repairs. However, he provided no specifics on the required investment or a timeline for construction, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

One of the few roads reportedly addressed was the route connecting Otilio Montaño to Zamora, though this was a limited state-led intervention. Other critical connections—such as those linking Reforma, Altos de Sevilla, and Miguel Alemán—remain in disrepair, leaving rural residents isolated, particularly during the rainy season.

Focus on Tourism Over Rural Needs

Contreras Méndez has instead emphasized recreational and tourism initiatives, such as the San Joaquín Fair and horseback riding events, which he claims will attract visitors from Mexico and Central America. While these activities may generate temporary economic benefits, they do little to address the structural deficiencies plaguing rural communities.

Despite Bacalar’s designation as a "Pueblo Mágico" (Magical Town), many of its rural inhabitants live in precarious conditions, with inadequate roads, limited services, and a government seemingly more focused on image than action. Critics accuse the mayor of offering excuses rather than taking responsibility for governance.

The disparity between the municipality’s tourism-driven narrative and the harsh realities of rural neglect underscores growing frustration among residents who feel abandoned by their local government.