Cancún residents rage over 85,000 peso water bills

Cancún, Quintana Roo — Outraged residents of Cancún took to the streets this week to protest skyrocketing water bills, with some invoices reaching as high as 85,000 pesos (approximately $4,250 USD). The demonstrations, organized by affected homeowners and local advocacy groups, targeted the State Water and Sanitation Commission (CAPA), demanding an immediate investigation into the billing irregularities.

Billing Discrepancies Spark Public Outcry

Protesters gathered outside CAPA’s offices, holding signs and chanting slogans condemning the agency for what they describe as "arbitrary and unjustified" charges. Many residents reported receiving bills that were five to ten times higher than their usual payments, despite no significant change in water usage.

Among the most egregious cases was that of María González, a homeowner in the Villas del Mar neighborhood, who received a bill for 85,000 pesos—an amount she insists is impossible given her household’s consumption. "We’re a family of four, and we’ve never used enough water to justify this kind of charge," González said. "CAPA refuses to provide a clear explanation or correct the error."

CAPA Responds Amid Growing Pressure

CAPA officials acknowledged the complaints in a press conference but attributed the discrepancies to a combination of technical errors and overdue meter readings. The agency’s director, Jorge Aguilar, stated that a review of the affected accounts is underway. "We understand the frustration and are working to resolve these cases as quickly as possible," Aguilar said. "Adjustments will be made where errors are confirmed."

However, protesters remain skeptical, citing a pattern of similar complaints over the past year. Local activist group Agua Justa has documented over 200 cases of inflated bills since January, accusing CAPA of systemic mismanagement. "This isn’t just a glitch—it’s a failure of oversight that’s hurting families already struggling with high living costs," said Ricardo Méndez, the group’s spokesperson.

Political Fallout and Calls for Reform

The controversy has drawn the attention of state lawmakers, with several legislators pledging to push for an audit of CAPA’s billing practices. Opposition party members have criticized the state government for its handling of the crisis, calling for greater transparency and accountability.

Meanwhile, affected residents have been advised to file formal complaints with CAPA and the Quintana Roo Consumer Protection Agency (PROFECO). Until resolutions are reached, many say they will continue protesting. "We won’t stop until these abusive charges are reversed," González vowed.

The protests underscore broader concerns about infrastructure and public service reliability in Cancún, a city grappling with rapid population growth and strained utilities. As the backlash grows, all eyes remain on CAPA’s next steps.