Mexican President López Obrador’s Tren Maya Railway (Mayan Train) project threatens a vulnerable cave system on the Yucatán Peninsula. Geologists warn of the destruction of sensitive ecosystems and possible collapses.
The gigantic project is intended to stimulate economic development and tourism in the relatively poor region. However, environmental groups and representatives of indigenous communities in the region have criticized the construction of the rail network for its massive interference with nature.
The construction work also endangers a cave system in the Yucatán that is already endangered by tourism. Geologists warn of environmental damage caused by enormous drilling and steel pillars that are driven deep into the underground through the caves (see video above).
The train will cross five states: Yucatán, Quintana Roo, Campeche, Chiapas and Tabasco. Along the route there are numerous cenotes, underground lakes and rivers typical of the region, as well as archaeological sites of the Mayan culture such as Xpujil, Becan and Chicanna.
Resistance from indigenous peoples and environmentalists
In addition to freight transportation, the Tren Maya project was intended to transport approximately three million people to 15 locations annually. However, the construction of commercial areas and industrial parks is also planned at most of the 19 train stations. A circumstance that encounters strong resistance from environmentalists due to its ecological consequences.
The Zapatista Liberation Army also announced resistance against the Tren Maya – for fear of expulsion. Indigenous groups, such as the Congreso Nacional Indigena, reject the project because they fear labor exploitation, a threat to their indigenous way of life and an ecological disaster.
Criticism of the project by the United Nations
The United Nations also criticized the project and feared that the construction of the railway would cause massive human rights violations. Work on building parts is said to have continued several times despite bans from local courts.
From 2024, the Tren Maya (Mayan Train) will cover a route of almost 1,500 kilometers, mainly on the Yucatán Peninsula, carrying approximately three million tourists per year. According to the plans, freight trains will also use the new rail network.
Lawsuits have been filed against the project
However, environmentalists and representatives of indigenous communities have filed lawsuits against the project: there are six UNESCO World Heritage Sites and five biosphere reserves in the region. Despite widespread criticism, President López Obrador remains committed to the construction project.
Source: Krone
I am Wallace Jones, an experienced journalist. I specialize in writing for the world section of Today Times Live. With over a decade of experience, I have developed an eye for detail when it comes to reporting on local and global stories. My passion lies in uncovering the truth through my investigative skills and creating thought-provoking content that resonates with readers worldwide.
