Three Tulum projects shut down by environmental agency

TULUM, Q. Roo  – Government officials have sealed off three projects in the vicinity of the Tulum National Park after it was discovered they lacked proper authorization.

The Federal Environmental Protection Agency (Profepa) shut down the projects once they realized none of them had the required environmental impact authorization that would have been issued by the Secretariat Of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat).

The closures came after numerous public complaints against the companies performing the work, demanding action that has destroyed the natural resources in the area of Punta Piedra.

Profepa’s Akumal regional office stopped the work of tourist developments that were being constructed without full authorization. The 1,600-square-meter project of Amansala or Casa Miel was suspended due to lack of environmental impact authorization for the construction of masonry work for a new restaurant La Chiquita.

Construction for Hotel Turquesa, which covered over 1,700 square meters, was also suspended for lack of authorization, while a third project discovered in the zone of Punta Piedra was shut down for the removal of coastal sand dunes to make way for houses.

Profepa officials confirmed that all three projects threatened natural species of the chit palm and striped iguana, both of which are found in the Official Mexican Standard. They added that there will be permanent surveillance on the projects to prevent further building. Fines as well as the restoration of any ecosystem damage will be imposed.

Source: rivieramayanews.com