Cancún Hotels Fight Water Crisis with Desalination Plants

In Cancún, a city known for its bustling hotel sector, over 120 desalination plants have been established across various tourist complexes. This drastic measure has been taken in response to the inadequate service provided by local water concessionaire, Aguakan. The company has failed to maintain the city's water distribution pipes, some of which are over 40 years old, leading to issues with water quality and supply.

The Mexican Institute of Water Technology reports that these desalination plants have allowed hotels in Cancún to bypass the unreliable fresh water supplied by Aguakan. The plants help prevent contamination caused by the deteriorating condition of the city's water pipes.

For example, the Royalton hotel's desalination plant can produce over 2,225.87 cubic meters of water, while the Club Med complex can generate 1,000 cubic meters daily. The Grand Island complex, currently in planning stages, aims to provide potable water to 3,000 rooms and other specific areas within the hotel.

However, the city's water issues extend beyond the hotel sector. Cancún residents also struggle with a daily lack of drinking water in their homes. This is exacerbated by Aguakan's failure to properly maintain the ageing water pipes, leading to bacterial and viral growth. The water is often unsafe for drinking and other daily activities.

The city's water pipes are also unable to withstand the pressure levels required for normal operation. This was evident when a 24-inch pipe in Haciendas del Caribe burst, and when over 15 leaks were detected at various points in the city.

As a result of these ongoing issues, local families have been forced to find alternative solutions to secure a reliable supply of drinking water.