Construction on a critical segment of the Maya Train has been halted following a federal court ruling. This decision comes in response to concerns raised about the environmental compliance of the project. The civil organization Sélvame del Tren, which initiated the lawsuit, successfully secured a “definitive suspension” of the ongoing construction.
Environmental Concerns Over Maya Train Construction
The court mandated that authorities must verify environmental regulations are being adhered to concerning the project. This ruling requires the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (PROFEPA) to ensure compliance with the court’s orders for environmental preservation.
The halted section, known as Section 5 of the Maya Train, measures 65 kilometers and extends from Playa del Carmen to Tulum, areas renowned for their tourism appeal. Environmentalists have flagged this stretch as particularly harmful, having expressed objections since its inception. They argue that construction has harmed crucial ecosystems by disturbing underground caverns and aquifers.
Impact on Biodiversity
Advocates for the environment have criticized the project for its considerable ecological impact. Notably, they cite that around 3.6 million trees have been lost due to the development. Recent reports highlighted damage to more than 120 caves, integral to the aquifer system of the Maya Jungle.
Last month, Sélvame del Tren released evidence showing that structural issues, including corroding steel piles, have resulted in concrete leaking into precious cave systems. The ruling may push for necessary inspections and conservation efforts in the future.
Maya Train Connectivity and Future Developments
The broader Maya Train project, inaugurated in 2024, entails a 1,554-kilometer railway loop across the Yucatán Peninsula. It aims to connect key archaeological sites, cities, and beaches, enhancing regional tourism. While construction on Section 5 is halted, work on freight services proceeds.
Freight Service Update
Recent updates from military engineer Ricardo Vallejo Suárez reveal ongoing developments in the freight service aspect of the Maya Train project. Currently, the completion rate of freight terminals stands at 25%. The cargo network includes:
- More than 950 kilometers of new track for cargo transport.
- 101 kilometers of yard tracks in freight complexes.
- 70 kilometers of track connecting Mérida to Progreso.
- A 7-kilometer line linking Cancún passenger terminal with the multimodal freight terminal.
Furthermore, progress continues on the double track in Sections 4 and 5 through Quintana Roo, enhancing expected freight operations set to commence later this year.
As stakeholders navigate this complex landscape, the need for balancing infrastructure development with environmental integrity remains a pressing challenge for Mexico.
