Playa del Carmen, Q.R. — A four-stage beach recovery program has been announced for the most effected areas of Playa del Carmen. Lenin Amaro Betancourt, city project liaison, says the first stage of the beach recovery project will cover a stretch of 1,260 meters.
The recovery program has been developed in four stages starting in the most affected areas. The division of stages, he says, is to avoid repeating past mistakes.
“This division into stages seeks to avoid the mistakes made in the 2010 project where the sand dumped was quickly lost. Work is now underway with more detailed preliminary studies and the advice of specialists to ensure the sustainability of the project,” explained Amaro Betancourt.
According to Amaro Betancourt, the studies being done include the behavior of marine currents, wind and other factors that affect coastal erosion. Amaro Betancourt stressed that despite some previous efforts, erosion has continued to advance, affecting even areas that had partially recovered in recent years.
“Climate change has accelerated the loss of beaches so it is essential to have prior studies that allow implementing long-term solutions. The recovery of these spaces is vital for tourism, the local economy and the environment,” he said.
First-phase work is expected to begin this month while complementary studies are being conducted to define the actions for the following phases of the project. He says they intend to start on the coastal area between the Navega dock and the Ultramar dock where erosion has advanced significantly.
Last week, Playa del Carmen Mayor Estefanía Mercado paid a visit to the most eroded beach areas of the city. She announced a beach recovery project was being worked on to save Playa del Carmen beaches.
