Another Dolphin Dies Due to Pemex Operations in the Sonda – Pago Abierta Investigates

Environmental Activist Raises Concerns Over Impact of Seismic Surveys on Marine Life

In a troubling development, Lourdes Rodríguez Badillo, the legal representative of Marea Azul, has voiced concerns regarding the environmental consequences of ongoing three-dimensional seismological surveys in the Campeche Sound, near the Flora and Fauna Protection Area “Laguna de Términos.” The recent discovery of a deceased juvenile dolphin on North Beach of Isla del Carmen has intensified these concerns. Badillo suggests that this unfortunate incident is a direct result of Petróleos Mexicanos (Pemex) conducting exploratory studies for hydrocarbon reserves without proper oversight from the Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (Semarnat) or an investigation by the Federal Attorney for Environmental Protection (Profepa).

This disturbing incident adds to the growing list of environmental issues associated with these seismic surveys. Badillo argues that the ongoing activities in this over-explored area are primarily driven by economic interests and lack the necessary Environmental Impact Statement. The region is home to a diverse marine ecosystem, including dolphins and turtles, making it imperative to safeguard their habitats.

According to Badillo, the consequences of these surveys extend beyond the marine life, affecting the fragile wetlands, coastlines, and mangroves in the area. She reports that this year alone, six dolphins and six turtles have been found dead on the shores of Ciudad del Carmen, with little to no official investigation into the causes of these deaths. The response from authorities, in the form of stranding networks, has been inadequate, as they merely measure and bury the deceased animals without exploring the root causes.

Badillo underscores the urgent need to address the environmental impact of these surveys. She suggests that the absence of proactive measures from authorities is deeply concerning, especially as the region witnesses an increase in deceased marine life. In her view, the absence of an effort to send corpses for further research is a missed opportunity to understand and mitigate these ongoing environmental issues.

Furthermore, Badillo highlights the adverse effects on the habitat of dolphins and other species caused by boat traffic near the Zacatal Bridge on the city boardwalk. She advocates for the relocation of boats from this natural area to protect the delicate balance of the ecosystem. Historically, Laguna de Términos has been a sanctuary for dolphins and other wildlife, and Badillo points out that it should remain free from the interference of boats, especially within a protection reserve for flora and fauna. She stresses that boats in the region should be relocated to minimize their impact, emphasizing that nature should not bear the burden of economic justifications for their proximity to the boardwalk.

In conclusion, Lourdes Rodríguez Badillo’s concerns shed light on the environmental challenges posed by three-dimensional seismic surveys in the Campeche Sound. It is vital that these concerns are addressed promptly to protect the unique and delicate ecosystem of the region and prevent further harm to marine life.

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