Environmentalists Fight Against Cozumel Beach Privatization

Environmental activists and local residents are joining forces to oppose the "Cabo Mantarraya" project. This initiative not only aims to privatize a public beach, but it is also perceived as a significant threat to Cozumel's ecological environment.

The group is protesting the proposed privatization of Villa Blanca beach. They have started a petition that will be presented to the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT). The organizers have set up signature collection points at several locations, including Mega Soriana square, Funky Bazar, Gigis, and the Cozumel campus of the University of Quintana Roo (Uqroo). The deadline for signing the petition is September 23rd, with the signatures set to be delivered in Cancún on September 25th. For more information, the group encourages people to visit the @noalcuartomuelle page, which also provides links to SEMARNAT's public consultation on the project.

Critics of the project argue that its construction would result in the loss of the last public beach in the southern part of the island. This beach is a popular spot for residents of nearby neighborhoods such as San Miguel, Independencia, Ixchel, and Colonos Cuzamil. It's also a training ground for athletes preparing for swimming competitions who can't afford to use a private or municipal pool.

Environmentalists are particularly concerned about the potential destruction of the last coastal reef, home to various protected coral and marine species such as the Horn of the Elk and the Parrot Fish. This reef is a popular destination for boats, many of which operate without the required permits to enter the Marine Park, but provide income for numerous families.

The "Cabo Mantarraya" project, promoted by "Total Gusto del Caribe S. de R.L.", proposes a 296.57 meter long recreational platform, covering a total surface area of 6,752 square meters. The platform, built on steel and wood pilings, includes a deck of 1,745 square meters. The company's goal is to develop commercial and beach spaces along the coast.