Tulum’s Sanitary Crisis Sparks Disease Outbreaks in Slums

Tulum, Quintana Roo — A severe sanitary and environmental crisis has erupted in 14 irregular settlements in Tulum, where more than 6,500 families lack access to basic infrastructure. The absence of proper drainage systems has led to recurrent gastrointestinal illnesses, outbreaks of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and Zika, and contamination of the groundwater that residents rely on for daily consumption.

Contaminated Groundwater Poses Health Risks

Atilano Aranda Rejón, president of the General Pluricultural Ethnic Committee in Tulum, warned that fecal waste is seeping into the groundwater, infecting the wells used by residents. Without drainage systems, families in these informal settlements depend on makeshift septic pits, which often overflow during the rainy season, spreading waste into the surrounding environment.

The contaminated water has caused frequent cases of diarrhea, stomach infections, and hepatitis A, particularly affecting children and the elderly. Additionally, foul odors and unsanitary conditions plague many homes as poorly constructed septic pits fail to contain waste.

“Most families use well water, but without proper drainage, the groundwater is contaminated. This has brought many illnesses to our communities. Unfortunately, we don’t see real interest from authorities to solve the problem,” Aranda Rejón stated.

Government Measures Fall Short

Local and state authorities have responded with limited measures, such as water chlorination campaigns and mosquito control efforts. However, no long-term infrastructure projects have been implemented to address the lack of drainage. Many septic pits in the area are outdated, unsealed, and already at capacity, leading to further contamination.

Residents have attempted to mitigate the crisis by constructing biodigesters through community-led programs, but these efforts have been insufficient due to the high costs and the rapid expansion of informal settlements.

“Human waste is infiltrating the groundwater, affecting cenotes, natural springs, and the surrounding jungle. You don’t need to be an expert to see the damage being done,” Aranda Rejón added.

The crisis highlights the stark inequalities in Tulum, where rapid urban growth has outpaced infrastructure development, leaving marginalized communities vulnerable to environmental and health hazards.