Semarnat Grants Two Plots to Tulum Municipality for Public Beaches
The Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources (SEMARNAT) recently announced a significant development in the coastal region of Tulum, Mexico. In a move to promote public access and preserve the natural beauty of the area, SEMARNAT has allocated two prime plots of land to the municipality of Tulum for the establishment of public beaches. These carefully selected locations, situated at kilometers 237 and 253 along the renowned Tulum-Playa del Carmen highway, offer visitors a unique opportunity to indulge in the captivating charm of the Caribbean coastline, far away from the bustling city center.
The decision, officially published in the prestigious Official Gazette of the Federation (DOF) on Wednesday, June 14th, underscores the government’s commitment to sustainable coastal development and environmental conservation. The first agreement grants the municipality of Tulum, Quintana Roo, the utilization rights to a spacious 282.22 square meters of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone. This specific parcel, located at kilometer 237+400 of the federal Cancun-Chetumal highway, falls within the enchanting Tankah IV area, renowned for its pristine beaches and crystal-clear waters.
In a parallel effort to enhance public access, the second agreement designates an area of 176.47 square meters of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone, positioned at kilometer 253+200 of the federal Cancun-Chetumal highway in Akumal. Akumal, a hidden gem on the Riviera Maya, enthralls beachgoers with its stunning coral reefs and diverse marine life.
The significance of these allocations should not be understated. By providing exclusive public access to these carefully chosen stretches of coastline, SEMARNAT aims to protect and showcase the region’s unique natural heritage. Both agreements explicitly state that the designated land must be preserved solely for public beach access, prohibiting any unauthorized construction, installations, or activities that deviate from the intended purpose.
It is worth noting that SEMARNAT has emphasized the temporary nature of these allocations. The Secretariat reserves the right to redefine the boundaries of the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone at any given time. Therefore, it is conceivable that the coordinates of the allocated areas may be subject to modification in the future. This dynamic approach ensures adaptability to changing environmental and conservation needs, guaranteeing the long-term sustainability of the region’s coastal resources.
To maintain the integrity of the agreements and safeguard the environment, the municipality of Tulum must adhere to specific regulations. Any usage of the allocated Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone for purposes other than those specified in the agreements requires prior authorization from the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources. Furthermore, if the municipality no longer requires or utilizes the designated land, it will be swiftly withdrawn and returned to the administration of the Federation, along with any associated improvements or additions.
This recent development signals a positive stride towards responsible coastal management and sustainable tourism practices in the region. The commitment shown by SEMARNAT and the municipality of Tulum not only ensures equitable public access to these breathtaking beaches but also underscores the government’s dedication to preserving the natural beauty that has made Tulum a globally recognized destination.
As the region continues to draw visitors from around the world, the establishment of these public beaches will undoubtedly enrich the overall experience, allowing tourists to immerse themselves in the splendor of the Mexican Caribbean while safeguarding its fragile ecosystems for generations to come.
