“Sargasso Seaweed Crisis in Majahual: Barrier Delay Sparks Concerns”

Despite assurances from the Secretary of the Navy (SEMAR) to expedite the installation of a sargasso barrier in Majahual by the end of April, local tourist service providers are growing increasingly concerned due to the lack of visible progress.

While the makeshift barriers they've constructed using their own resources have helped prevent a significant amount of the seaweed from washing up on the beaches, it's clear that these efforts are insufficient. The Mayan coast is already experiencing a considerable influx of the aquatic plant. As a result, locals are once again insisting that the promised barrier be installed to help mitigate the impact of the macroalgae.

“The commitment was that the barrier would be ready before April ended. We are just a few days away from this deadline, and the barrier has not yet been installed. This is cause for concern. Firstly, because the promises made to us are not being fulfilled, and secondly, because there is already an abundance of sargasso present. While the makeshift barriers are helping, we need the containment barrier as soon as possible. The work is progressing too slowly, and we fear that the pace will only increase once we are already inundated with sargasso,” said Rodolfo Espadas, a representative of the Costa Maya tourist business owners.

Espadas added that while there has been a willingness from both the state and federal governments to listen and propose a new strategy to address the sargasso issue, no concrete actions have been taken. Over 1450 linear meters of barrier should already be in place from north to south to prevent the algae from causing economic damage and deterring visitors.

The barrier's installation in the maritime zone will follow a new strategy to avoid repeating previous mistakes. This was discussed in a meeting with representatives of the state and federal governments. The barrier will cover a larger area this year, and locals hope to see results before more sargasso arrives.

The concern stems from the fact that every year, there are delays and the work often extends into the summer, which is the peak tourist season. To maintain a positive image of the destination, it is crucial that the barrier is installed in a timely manner.