In Chetumal, QR, plans are underway to shift the dredging project from the Zaragoza Canal to Chetumal Bay. The Zaragoza Canal project was cancelled due to environmental concerns, leading authorities to consider the Bay as an alternative.
Vagner Elbiorn Vega, director of the Integral Port Administration of Quintana Roo (Apiqroo), explained that the Canal project was deemed unfeasible due to its potential environmental impact. Now, Apiqroo is exploring the feasibility of dredging Chetumal Bay to allow larger vessels access to southern Quintana Roo.
According to Vega, bathymetry and environmental impact studies are currently being conducted to evaluate the feasibility of the Bay project. While these studies are ongoing, the project is still considered to be in the evaluation phase.
The goal of the dredging project is to boost nautical activity and strengthen the southern region's economy through the maritime sector. Vega expressed Apiqroo's hope for positive results from the studies, which would allow them to capitalize on the potential of the Bay.
The Zaragoza Canal dredging project has experienced intermittent progress since 2020 and was ultimately abandoned in 2023 due to environmental concerns. Vega revealed that Apiqroo has been consulting with specialists in Dubai to learn about the latest technologies for environmentally-friendly dredging methods for the Bay.
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