Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — A large patch of dark, foul-smelling water appeared on the beach between Calle 88 and Punta Esmeralda, alarming visitors and residents who fear possible contamination.
Witnesses reported a strong odor that drove some swimmers away shortly after they arrived. Images show a dark stream flowing into the sea and spreading along the shoreline, contrasting sharply with the normally clear water.
Authorities have not yet confirmed the source of the discharge. Possible causes under investigation include sewage runoff, stormwater drainage, or natural phenomena involving accumulated organic matter. Officials said no conclusion can be reached without proper testing.
Residents and social media users have called on municipal, state, and environmental authorities to conduct water sampling, determine the origin of the problem, and take necessary measures to protect public health and the coastal ecosystem.
The affected area is one of the most popular stretches of beach in Playa del Carmen. Citizens urged authorities to transparently share investigation results and promptly address any contamination sources that could harm the tourist destination’s beaches.
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