Protests Disrupt Key Roads in Quintana Roo, Mexico

Quintana Roo, Mexico — A series of protests erupted across Quintana Roo on Wednesday, July 23, disrupting key roadways in Felipe Carrillo Puerto, Tulum, and Mahahual. Demonstrators cited grievances ranging from prolonged power outages to alleged violent evictions, leading to widespread traffic disruptions and confrontations with authorities.

Power Outages Spark Highway Blockade in Felipe Carrillo Puerto

Residents of Santa Rosa in Felipe Carrillo Puerto blocked Federal Highway 295, a critical route toward Mérida, to protest persistent electricity shortages. The demonstrators claimed the outages have plagued the community for over two years, with no resolution from the Federal Electricity Commission (CFE) despite repeated complaints.

The blockade began at 9:00 PM on Tuesday, with protesters using rocks, logs, and human chains to barricade the road. Only emergency medical vehicles were permitted to pass. The National Guard monitored the situation but did not intervene. Meanwhile, at least seven neighborhoods in Chetumal also reported power outages.

Violent Eviction Triggers Airport Road Closure in Tulum

In Tulum, residents of the informal settlement Tren Maya blocked the road to the Tulum International Airport following an alleged excessive-force eviction by police and ministerial officers. Protesters set tires ablaze and obstructed the roadway with debris, causing severe traffic congestion.

The blockade was cleared by 8:30 AM after Tulum’s Secretary of Public Security, Edgar Aguilar Rico, arrived with a fire truck to extinguish the flames. Negotiations between authorities and protesters remain ongoing.

Mahahual Residents Protest Alleged Arbitrary Evictions

Earlier on Wednesday, residents of Mahahual blocked the Cafetal-Mahahual highway in response to what they called illegal evictions by state and municipal authorities. Demonstrators also cited long-standing neglect by the state government.

The protest completely halted traffic at the intersection connecting Chetumal, Xcalak, and Mahahual. Burning tires, trash, dirt, and rocks were used to barricade the road at kilometer 48, preventing both private and commercial vehicles from passing.

Authorities Respond Amid Escalating Tensions

While the National Guard maintained a presence at the Felipe Carrillo Puerto protest, no clashes were reported. In Tulum, officials engaged in dialogue with demonstrators, though tensions persist. No immediate resolution has been announced for the Mahahual blockade.

The protests underscore growing frustrations over infrastructure failures, housing disputes, and perceived government inaction in Quintana Roo.