Residents of the Diego Rojas and Nuevo Progreso neighborhoods in Bacalar have been grappling with severe flooding for over a week, even before Hurricane "Beryl" struck the region. The floods are attributed to heavy rainfall, but locals believe the construction of the Maya Train project has exacerbated the situation by creating a dam over a kilometer long, blocking the natural water flow. This has left many unable to return to their homes.

Humberto Corona, a hotel owner who relocated from Toluca, State of Mexico, to Bacalar, detailed the damage to his property. “The property is destroyed, with water levels reaching 70 centimeters above the floor. Everything was affected: appliances, pools, lawns, plants, filtration pumps, generators, wooden doors, cars. We feel extremely neglected,” he said.

Locals insist that they have never witnessed floods of this magnitude before. Corona stated, "We bought here five and a half years ago, with deeds and a municipal license specifying this is not a flood-prone area. We've had heavier rains in the past without such incidents. Lifelong Bacalar residents agree: ‘this has never happened before’. The Maya Train construction is to blame."

Residents have reached out to City Hall, which has suggested that the homes were built in low-lying areas where they shouldn’t have been. However, residents have deeds and licenses that contradict this claim. Approximately 50 families have united to demand a solution. City Hall, under the leadership of José Alfredo Contreras Méndez, has promised to engage in discussions with Conagua and Sedena, but those affected are still awaiting a definitive response.

The floods have also led to health issues among locals, with many living in unsanitary conditions. Verónica Carrillo, a resident of Colonia Diego Rojas, revealed that her two children fell ill due to the contaminated water. “We are living a reality that we cannot handle. Homes are still underwater, 15 days after the rains. The authorities have not taken appropriate action,” she criticized. The Bacalar Potable Water and Sewerage Commission (CAPA) has attempted to drain the neighborhoods, but their efforts have proven inadequate. Residents continue to endure the aftermath of the floods while waiting for a permanent solution.