Illegal Bypass Closed in Tulum’s Maya Jungle After Environmental Damage

Environmentalists Secure Federal Closure of Illegal Infrastructure

Environmentalists achieved the closure of an illegal bypass in the Maya Jungle in Tulum after documenting severe damage to the ecosystem and risks to the aquifer, highlighting the importance of halting construction without environmental permits. The work proceeded without environmental permits and caused the felling of hundreds, even thousands, of trees, in addition to generating direct risks to the aquifer and the region’s cave and cenote systems.

Following the complaint, the route was closed by federal authorities, stopping what specialists described as an ongoing ecocide. At the site, a field inspection was conducted with the participation of cave divers, academics, and environmental law specialists, who documented the damage and exposed the threats and impacts of this type of infrastructure in a territory of high ecological fragility.

They agreed that the project lacked an environmental impact study and authorization for land use change, indispensable requirements for any intervention in forest areas of Quintana Roo.

Specialists Warn of Environmental Tragedy

Environmentalists and specialists conducted an inspection at the closed illegal bypass in the Maya Jungle. The specialists explained that the bypass, presented on paper as a solution to relieve traffic, in practice represented an environmental tragedy. While acknowledging a mobility problem, the proposed alternative benefited a small group and transferred the environmental costs to society as a whole.

The opening of the road involved removal of vegetation cover, soil compaction, and a high risk of contamination of the aquifer, on which the water supply, biodiversity, and environmental balance of the region depend.

During the tour, the strategic importance of the underground water system and the biocultural treasures associated with the Maya Jungle was highlighted, an ecosystem that has suffered constant pressure from urban, tourist, and real estate growth without adequate planning. It was noted that the loss of jungle and alteration of karst soil are cumulative damages that compromise the environmental and social future of the state.

Closure Marks Victory in Ongoing Battle

The closure of the bypass was considered a battle won within a fight that does not stop. Environmentalists emphasized that this action defends everyone’s future and demonstrates that public and private decisions must prioritize comprehensive well-being, where environmental health is a central axis, since nothing benefits society as a whole more than guaranteeing healthy and functional ecosystems.

Experts warned about the risks to the aquifer and the region’s cave and cenote system. In the closed area, natural regeneration processes are already observable.

Specialists explained that, if nature is allowed to recover without new interventions, ecological succession could close this wound in a period of 20 to 30 years, as long as illegal practices like clearing without permits are not repeated.

Finally, the collective Selvame MX called on citizens to raise their voices, denounce any act of deforestation or contamination, and assume an active role in defending the territory. They acknowledged that the obstacles are numerous, but affirmed that more and more people are, in an organized manner, defending their home and the right to a healthy environment.