Federal Court Admits New Challenge by Bacalar Children Against Military Rest House Construction

Aerial view of Bacalar lagoon with construction site visible nearby

Bacalar, Quintana Roo — Federal magistrates have accepted a new legal challenge from children in Bacalar seeking to halt construction of a military rest house, citing environmental protection concerns. The lawsuit questions the environmental impact authorization granted to the Mexican Army (SEDENA).

The Second Collegiate Circuit Court received a review petition regarding the lifting of a work suspension order issued in November 2025. According to the court agreement dated Monday, February 16, from case file 313/2025, the court acknowledged the appeal filed by the children through the Federal Public Defender’s Institute.

This injunction adds to previous actions against the project: one was withdrawn, while another remains pending resolution, filed by the civil association Defending the Right to a Healthy Environment (DMAS). The Mexican Army’s restart of construction near the Bacalar lagoon, known as the “seven colors” lagoon, has raised concerns among activists and local residents.

The federal court must decide whether the cancellation of the previous suspension was legal, though the resolution could take several months. Meanwhile, the case highlights the active participation of children and civil organizations in environmental protection and oversight of projects with potential ecological impact.

The controversy also raises questions about balancing national security interests with protecting fragile ecosystems, particularly in areas of high tourist and environmental value like Bacalar.


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