Perpetual Problem: Playa del Carmen Sinkhole Still Unresolved

The sinkhole on federal highway 307 in Playa del Carmen, which has been a problem for over a decade, is still without a permanent solution. The current work being carried out by the Secretariat of Infrastructure, Communications and Transportation (SICT) is only a temporary fix, as further studies and projects are needed to provide a long-term solution. The sinkhole, located between Playa del Carmen and Puerto Morelos, has caused a reduction in lanes and has been the site of numerous traffic accidents.

Guido Mendiburo Solís, director of the Quintana Roo Center of the SICT, explained that the current actions involve leveling and applying a new layer of asphalt. However, these are not permanent solutions.

"What we are doing is part of the conservation program's work. The current diversion in the area will remain in place. However, the goal is to carry out preliminary actions before a final repair, which is planned for the second half of the year," Solís added.

For now, there will be enhanced signage to ensure safer transit. The temporary works are expected to be completed by the end of May.

Solís also noted that the SICT resumed conservation work on the roads in 2023 after the National Fund for Promotion of Tourism took control to plan the route of the Maya Train. However, due to a lack of resources last year, these works are only now being resumed in 2025.

The sinkhole, referred to by the SICT as a geological fault, first appeared in 2015. Federal authorities attempted to fill it and lay a new asphalt layer, but the area suffered damage again in 2021. As a result, temporary measures were implemented to allow traffic to continue.

The business and tourism sectors have been calling for a permanent solution for years, as the area not only presents a poor image, but has also seen an increase in reported incidents.