Bridge Construction Scandal Unveiled: Late Payments Spark Outrage

The construction of the Nichupté Bridge in Quintana Roo, one of the region's most ambitious infrastructure projects, is facing serious allegations of financial misconduct. Suppliers, transporters, and workers have accused the construction company ICA and the Autonomous Confederation of Workers and Employees of Mexico (CATEM) of failing to pay for services. The project, which started last year, aims to connect the hotel area of Cancún at kilometer 13, near Plaza Kukulcán, through the intersection of Kabah, Bonampak, and Tulum avenues.

The most impacted are the owners of boats used for transporting construction workers. They report damage to their vessels and theft of engines and accessories, all while payment for their services has been delayed for over seven months. One boat owner, who wished to remain anonymous, expressed frustration, stating, "We don't want more empty promises of payment. We have been hearing the same thing for months and there's no resolution. ICA and CATEM seem to be toying with our time and resources."

Truck operators, known as "torton" trucks, also claim the company has outstanding debts with several suppliers that span over a year. Many have participated in protests outside the offices of ICA and the CATEM union. In response to the ongoing issue, those affected are planning a new demonstration to draw attention to their plight, hoping to prompt intervention from the authorities ahead of the municipal president's scheduled visit.

The relationship between ICA and CATEM is under scrutiny, with some suspecting a possible agreement between the two to delay payments. One worker stated, "We feel betrayed by the union, which should be representing us. It seems they have been bought to leave us unprotected." The protestors are now organizing to amplify their demands and ensure payment commitments are fulfilled. These allegations of irregularities cast a shadow over the future of the Nichupté Bridge, raising questions about the project's transparency and fairness towards those involved in its construction.