Cancún Authorities Shut Down Illegal Dump Near International Airport

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Authorities shut down an illegal dump discovered next to Cancún International Airport, with Mayor Ana Paty Peralta vowing zero tolerance for environmental crimes.

During a coordinated operation with the Quintana Roo Secretariat of Ecology and Environment (SEMA), the Environmental Protection Agency of Quintana Roo (PPA), the General Directorate of Ecology, and Siresol’s Green Units, officials found dozens of tons of municipal and special management waste. The materials included decomposing organic matter, plastics, cardboard, metals, and expired medications, posing a health risk and creating a direct source of soil and groundwater contamination.

“There is zero tolerance for illegal dumps here,” Mayor Peralta emphasized, adding that her administration continues to act firmly by shutting down, investigating, and sanctioning violators.

She stated that the case has been referred to SEMA and other competent authorities to determine responsibility and apply exemplary sanctions, which could include significant fines and even criminal charges.

SEMA head Óscar Alberto Rébora Aguilera warned that if a private company’s involvement is confirmed, it must answer for the environmental damage caused, as such actions violate waste management regulations and constitute an environmental crime.

Mayor Peralta noted these actions are not isolated incidents but part of a permanent environmental cleanup and management strategy that includes supervision operations at critical points, immediate response to citizen reports, daily waste removal in neighborhoods, eradication and cleanup of illegal dumps, and interagency coordination to promote proper waste disposal culture.

Finally, the mayor urged citizens to report any irregular waste disposal activities by calling 998 778 4500, reinforcing social responsibility in environmental protection.