Quintana Roo to Restore 31km of Eroded Beaches

Cancún, Quintana Roo — The state government is conducting technical studies to obtain the Environmental Impact Statement (MIA) required for the recovery of 31 kilometers of eroded beaches in Quintana Roo, according to Óscar Rébora Aguilera, head of the Secretariat of Ecology and Environment (Sema).

Restoration Plans for Key Tourist Destinations

Once the studies are completed and the MIA is secured, the state government will launch a program to address erosion across multiple coastal areas. The project includes restoring 12 kilometers of beach in Cancún, another 12 kilometers in Playa del Carmen, 2 to 3 kilometers in Cozumel, and an additional 6 kilometers in Puerto Morelos.

Rébora Aguilera outlined two primary strategies under consideration. The first involves identifying sandbanks to reconstruct the shoreline within the approved MIA boundaries. The second focuses on rebuilding dunes that previously supported hotels and condominiums, though this approach is still under review with experts and Cuban government officials.

"We cannot simply keep replenishing the beaches. We must provide sustainable solutions for nature, such as dune reconstruction and coral barrier rehabilitation. These measures are part of the broader plan," Rébora Aguilar stated.

Coral Barrier Protection and Erosion Mitigation

The initiative also aims to strengthen coral barriers in the affected zones, which have suffered significant damage in recent years due to rising sea temperatures. Approximately 60% of the reef system has been impacted, according to the official.

The beach recovery program, targeting erosion caused by natural and human factors, is slated for implementation this year. The efforts align with broader ecological restoration goals to preserve Quintana Roo’s coastal ecosystems.

Related Incident: Shark Sightings Reported in Cancún Beaches

In a separate development, recent shark sightings near Cancún’s beaches have drawn attention, though no incidents were reported. Authorities continue to monitor marine activity in the region.

The state’s comprehensive approach to coastal management underscores its commitment to balancing tourism demands with environmental conservation.