PROFEPA Stops Unauthorized Work in Celestún Reserve

MÉRIDA, MX. — The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) ordered the complete temporary closure of two properties located within the Ría Celestún Biosphere Reserve after detecting activities and works carried out without environmental or forestry authorization. The intervened areas are part of a coastal ecosystem of high ecological value and are located within one of the country’s most important biological sites.

The inspections were carried out on October 30 on two properties identified with numbers 51-A and 51-Ñ, located on Calle 12. During the review, PROFEPA personnel confirmed the removal of vegetation and modification of the terrain on estimated surfaces of 550 square meters and 200 square meters, respectively. The intervention included the elimination of dunes and coastal scrubland to open a path, an action that breaks the natural balance of the ecosystem.

According to the official report, the persons responsible for the properties did not present permits issued by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat), despite regulations requiring prior authorization for any work within Protected Natural Areas and zones considered of high environmental fragility.

Given these irregularities, the inspectors determined to apply security measures and ordered the immediate closure of all activity on the properties, placing official seals to prevent any further intervention. The resolution aims to prevent greater damage and ensure the protection of the coastal habitat within the Biosphere Reserve.

PROFEPA reported that it will maintain vigilance in the area and reinforce actions to ensure compliance with environmental legislation, with the objective of protecting coastal ecosystems and ensuring the conservation of the country’s Protected Natural Areas.