Activists Slam Insufficient Pollution Control in Maya Train Project

Activists have raised concerns over the inadequate measures being taken to address pollution in Section 5 of the Maya Train project in Quintana Roo, Mexico.

Staff from the Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) have been accused of using makeshift methods to contain pollution in the aquifer beneath the project. The pollution is reportedly a result of landfills used for pile driving, concrete spills, and diesel leaks on the site, according to members of the Save Me from the Train movement.

During a tour of the Aktun Tuyul cave system, hydrologist Guillermo D'Christy and biologist Roberto Rojo discovered makeshift remediation efforts inside one of the caves. These measures included the use of blankets tied to sticks and bags, in an attempt to contain the hydrocarbons seeping from the surface into the already polluted aquifer. Additionally, containers filled with detergent and makeshift guards were found on the site.

The water specialist made these findings public, criticizing the ineffective and absurd nature of these measures. D'Christy pointed out that special materials designed to absorb such spills exist, but were not being used. He questioned the oversight of these tasks and expressed frustration over the ongoing water pollution, which has been documented for over three months.