The Ocean Futures Society Foundation, led by renowned environmentalist Jean-Michel Cousteau, expressed deep concern about the megaproject’s ecological impacts.
Furthermore, in a letter addressed to President Claudia Sheinbaum, Cousteau emphasized that this mega-work endangers unique ecosystems and species at risk of extinction.
Likewise, in its letter, the foundation highlighted that during the last six years, it sent multiple communications to the Government of Andrés Manuel López Obrador to request the completion of environmental impact studies before constructing the Tren Maya.
However, they claim that these requests never received a response.
“The intention was always to protect the natural and archaeological treasures that the cenotes house, as well as the vast biodiversity of the jungles, which includes species such as the jaguar and the ocelot, both in danger of extinction,” said Cousteau.
In addition, the Tren Maya has been criticized for changes in its route layout, which, according to the foundation, has destroyed caves and cenotes essential for local flora and fauna.
Although the government assured that not a single tree would be cut down, the foundation pointed out that official figures speak of seven million trees cut, while experts estimate that the real number could rise to ten million.
Among the most affected species are the jaguar, ocelot, and wild boar, which have seen their habitat reduced due to modifications to the project.
Also, the foundation also criticized the hiring of the Secretariat of National Defense (Sedena) to manage fauna in the areas affected by the train.
According to Cousteau, this management includes the displacement of species classified as “harmful fauna,” among which are animals in danger of extinction, such as jaguars and ocelots.
“The Tren Maya not only represents an environmental risk but also the loss of an invaluable natural and cultural legacy for Mexico and the world,” the foundation concluded in its letter.
San Miguel Times
Newsroom
