Residents Warn of Sewage Contamination in Puerto Aventuras Marina Canals

Playa del Carmen, Quintana Roo — Residents and environmental groups are warning that sewage may be contaminating the marina canals of Puerto Aventuras, a resort community on the Riviera Maya south of Playa del Carmen, saying the problem has persisted for about three months and is now visible in the water.

Images shared on social media show changes in water color and waste at various points around the complex. The complainants say there are also strong odors and material they attribute to fecal discharges, mainly from the section known as Phase 4.

The group Todos por el Acuífero (All for the Aquifer), which made the complaint public, says a water analysis found fecal contamination levels incompatible with primary contact activities. If those results are confirmed, swimming, diving and other recreational activities involving direct contact with the water would not be advisable.

Concern also extends to marine wildlife and the area’s aquifers. The canals connect to the sea, so residents warn that a prolonged discharge could spread its effects into other ecosystems and pose a risk to fish, other species and people using the area.

The complainants called for an investigation into the source of the suspected discharges and whether there is a failure in wastewater management inside the complex. They also asked authorities to determine the extent of the contamination and to establish possible responsibility if irregular dumping is confirmed.

So far, the allegations and the test results come from residents and the group that publicized the case. Environmental authorities will need to carry out official studies to confirm the level of contamination, identify where it originates and determine whether the Puerto Aventuras canals currently represent a health or environmental risk.