Activists opposing the construction of the Mayan Train have raised concerns about apparent corrosion on the support piles. The environmental group "Save me from the Train" has shared photographs showing what appears to be corrosion on the piles used to support the elevated viaduct of the Mayan Train's southern Section 5, which runs from Playa del Carmen to Tulum.
The images depict a diver floating among the corrosion of one of the 15,000 piles intended to support the Mayan Train. Environmentalist Cristina Nolasco, a member of the group, shared her concerns on social media. She questioned the stability of the ground and the ability of these piles to withstand the weight and vibration of the train.
Nolasco also highlighted the impact of the train's construction on the environment, noting that the southern Section 5 has affected 122 caves and cenotes. She pointed out that the planned stations are far from urban and tourist areas.
Caver Guillermo D. Christy also expressed doubts about the maintenance and durability of these piles. He noted that over 15 piles within the aquifer are already showing signs of corrosion due to the high salinity of the water. He questioned how it will be ensured that these piles will not fail due to lack of maintenance and the potential for the supporting soil to dissolve.
In early June, Nolasco argued that the karstic soil near the Tulum station is fragile. She pointed out the appearance of a new cave on the surface and expressed concerns that the supporting piles, buried 25 meters deep, could lose their stability.
The controversial construction on the elevated section of the Mayan Train is currently on hold due to a judge's suspension order.
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