Playa del Carmen Stops Beach Privatization Attempt

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — The Federal Maritime Terrestrial Zone (Zofemat), under the direction of Irving Rafael Lili Madrigal, responded to a citizen complaint regarding the obstruction and alleged privatization of the beach located at 8th Street in downtown Playa del Carmen.

According to the report, the lessor of a foreign-owned restaurant located at The Carmen hotel installed wooden structures, ropes, plants, and furniture that impeded free passage for beachgoers, in addition to removing and altering the coastal dune. These actions are believed to have been carried out for approximately three weeks, affecting a concessioned area and adjacent public use zones.

Zofemat personnel visited the site to speak with those responsible for the establishment, achieving partial removal of the obstacles; however, it was confirmed that elements blocking free access persisted, including tables, lounge chairs, and umbrellas. Additionally, improper relocation of dune vegetation to adjacent areas and within public thoroughfares was detected.

The situation not only affects free movement for visitors and residents but also impacts the operation of nearby businesses and the supply of basic services, in addition to the environmental impact caused by alteration of the coastal dune. In response, municipal inspectors proceeded to remove ropes and structures from the beach club, as well as take corresponding actions for dune restoration.

The Playa del Carmen Government reiterated that it will not permit any act of beach privatization and will continue to promptly address citizen complaints, reinforcing surveillance to guarantee respect for the environment and everyone’s right to free access to coastal areas.