LOS CABOS — Mexican water authorities uncovered 18 unauthorized wells during a Monday sweep of San José Arroyo, in San José del Cabo part of a broader effort to evacuate families living illegally in flood-prone zones and protect the area’s fragile ecosystem ahead of hurricane season.
Operation Details
The National Water Commission (CONAGUA) led the interagency raid—supported by local police, National Guard units, and municipal services—two months after notifying residents to vacate the hazardous area.
"Our primary focus is clearing the arroyo to prevent flooding risks", said Los Cabos General Secretary Alberto Rentería Santana, who emphasized the operation’s urgency given the active 2025 cyclone season. "We found people living directly in the riverbed, with illegal wells and pit toilets contaminating the aquifer."
Failed Relocation Efforts
Despite offers of one month’s rental assistance from the municipal government, only one family accepted help to relocate. Rentería condemned the exploitation of vulnerable groups: "These families were misled into believing they could own property in a danger zone. Their lives—and belongings—are at stake when flash floods hit."
Environmental and Safety Risks
The raid revealed:
- 18 unregulated water extraction wells (now under CONAGUA investigation)
- Improper waste systems polluting groundwater
- Ongoing cleanup efforts to remove debris from the waterway
Authorities warned that similar operations will continue as the region braces for tropical storms.
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