Holbox, Q.R. — After a blown electrical substation left the island without power, local businessmen say Holbox has outgrown itself. The power and water resources that at one time were sufficient, are no longer adequate.
On Sunday evening, the entire island was left without electricity after a CFE substation on the mainland blew. Not only did it cut power, it also cut the island’s water supply since the pumps used require electricity to ensure water flow.
Island businessman Manuel Escamilla García said that the failure is the result of too much growth. He says the 5:00 p.m. power outage is due to the island’s large population.
“The population is already too big for the CFE plant,” he said after learning that there were two substations that blew, causing the Sunday power outage.
According to the CFE Tizimin region superintendent, they are looking to repair one station that blew with parts from another station in hopes it will power the island, even temporarily.
While parts were being sought, assistance from CFE personnel in Cancun and Riviera Maya was requested to set up emergency power plants to reestablish service, which was scheduled for early Monday morning.
The Potable Water and Sewerage Commission (CAPA) also confirmed an interruption in the pumping of water to the island due to the power failure. CAPA reported they were forced to stop pumping to protect their equipment due to the power failure.
According to available information, there are just over 1,500 permanent residents living on the 56 square kilometer island of Holbox.
