Puerto Morelos, Quintana Roo — The Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa) conducted an inspection and environmental surveillance operation from May 27 to May 30 in Puerto Morelos’ coastal zone, responding to citizen complaints about irregular growth of real estate developments in sensitive coastal ecosystems.
Closures Due to Non-Compliance with Environmental Law
During the operation, Profepa inspectors imposed temporary total closures on multiple construction projects lacking the required environmental impact authorization, as stipulated in Article 28, Section IX, of the General Law of Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (LGEEPA).
May 27: Closure of a Two-Story Residence
A construction spanning approximately 1,000 square meters was shut down for lacking the necessary environmental permits. The responsible party failed to present the required authorization during the inspection, prompting the opening of an administrative case.
May 28: Repeat Offense in Unauthorized Construction
The following day, a project previously sanctioned in March 2024 was closed again. Profepa had initially ordered a halt to construction until the environmental impact authorization was obtained. However, inspectors confirmed that work had continued without the permit, advancing to five levels despite originally being in the earthwork phase.
May 29: New Closure for Unauthorized Modifications
Another inspection revealed a development conducting construction activities that did not match the permit issued by the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat). Although the site owner presented authorization for housing rehabilitation, the original structure had been demolished, and new construction involving heavy machinery and concrete piles was underway. This led to another temporary total closure.
May 30: Prospection Tours
The operation concluded with prospection tours to identify additional construction projects. Profepa announced these developments would be subject to future inspections.
Puerto Morelos: A Strategic Priority
Profepa’s head, Mariana Boy Tamborrell, emphasized that Puerto Morelos lies between two protected natural areas: the Puerto Morelos Reef National Park and the Puerto Morelos Mangrove Flora and Fauna Protection Area. This strategic location underscores the urgency of safeguarding the region from developments threatening ecological balance.
"Profepa in Quintana Roo will continue conducting inspection and surveillance operations to verify compliance with environmental regulations and address citizen complaints," she stated.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing environmental laws and protecting sensitive ecosystems from unauthorized development.
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