Ecological Devastation Uncovered: Mérida’s Cuxtal Reserve Suffers Heavy Damage.
A shocking report of ecological devastation has surfaced at the Cuxtal Reserve in Mérida, leaving a trail of destruction and raising concerns about the impact on local wildlife. According to Cecilia Patrón Laviada, mayor of Mérida, eight hectares of this protected nature reserve were ravaged by heavy machinery, prompting a formal complaint filed with the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa).
The Cuxtal Reserve, which spans approximately 11,894 hectares and is home to over 800 species of flora and fauna, was declared a Zone Subject to Ecological Conservation in 1993. Its preservation is crucial for maintaining natural ecosystem processes that ensure essential environmental services, such as the water cycle.
Residents and environmental activists were instrumental in uncovering the alleged ecocide. On March 23, they alerted local authorities about the ecological devastation after observing the affected areas during surveys. Their report included detailed maps, photographs, coordinates, and a technical analysis of the damage, which was later reviewed by Profepa.
Following a thorough investigation, Profepa inspectors used drones to survey the area and assess the extent of the destruction. Despite initial concerns that no heavy machinery or personnel were present at the time of their visit, authorities have since taken decisive action to address the situation.
Last Tuesday, Profepa closed two affected properties belonging to the company Materiales Anillo Periférico (MAPSA), a move welcomed by residents and environmentalists. However, questions remain about how this destruction occurred and who is ultimately responsible.
The Cuxtal Reserve is an important natural habitat and plays a critical role in preserving biodiversity and maintaining ecosystem balance. The consequences of this ecological devastation will likely be far-reaching, affecting not just local wildlife but also the community’s reliance on these essential environmental services.
As investigations continue, the people of Mérida and beyond are watching with bated breath to see how Profepa will address this situation and ensure that those responsible are held accountable.
The post Mérida’s Cuxtal Ecological Reserve Devastated first appeared on The Yucatan Times.