CAPA Ready to Take Over Aguakan’s Water Operations

Chetumal, Quintana Roo — Despite the state government’s announcement that a public-state entity in coordination with the federal government will take over water services in the municipalities of Benito Juárez, Isla Mujeres, Puerto Morelos, and Playa del Carmen following the revocation of Aguakan’s concession, the director general of the Comisión de Agua Potable y Alcantarillado (CAPA), Hugo Garza Sáenz, stated that the agency is prepared to assume water supply operations in place of the private company.

Awaiting Legal Process to Assume Control

Garza Sáenz emphasized that CAPA is only waiting for the legal process to conclude before absorbing Aguakan’s operations to ensure no users are left without water while long-term mechanisms are finalized.

“Yes, of course we are prepared, as has been stated repeatedly. We’ve essentially just lent them the house. Remember, the infrastructure Aguakan operates with belongs to the state government—the pipes, plants, pumping stations, offices, and more. We are ready, but we must not forget this is a judicial matter. Once we receive the directive, we are prepared to step in so no one is left without water, which is the ultimate goal,” he said.

Retaining Skilled Workforce

Regarding personnel, Garza Sáenz noted that Aguakan has managed the workforce since the beginning, but once CAPA assumes temporary or permanent control, the majority of employees will be retained due to their expertise.

“When it comes to human capital, which is the most important, we will not let them go. There are highly valuable people within Aguakan, and we must acknowledge that. Some are out in the early hours operating pumping stations, treatment plants, and networks—these individuals are invaluable, and they will continue with us if that’s the case,” he affirmed.

Capacity to Serve Expanded Customer Base

Garza Sáenz dismissed claims that CAPA lacks the capacity to take over Aguakan’s responsibilities, citing recent upgrades to the water supply network, pumping stations, and sanitation systems. These improvements, he said, will enable CAPA to serve Aguakan’s more than 453,000 customers in addition to its existing 168,121 users.