Hidalgo government denies backing Tula landfill; residents fear well contamination

The government of Hidalgo, Mexico, has distanced itself from the proposed Siete Mezquites landfill project in Tula, a development that residents of adjacent areas fear could severely impact vital groundwater sources. These aquifers are crucial for supplying water to approximately 300,000 people across several municipalities.

The landfill proposal emerged following a waste management crisis in the southern part of the state, affecting at least 13 municipalities, including Tula. While a landfill was planned for the community of El Llano, inhabitants of the neighboring municipality of Tezontepec de Aldama have raised alarms about potential contamination of local aquifers by leachate from the waste.

Opponents of the project argue that toxic seepage from the landfill could pollute drinking water wells that serve communities such as Tezontepec, Progreso, and Mixquiahuala. This has spurred a mobilization effort to halt the landfill's construction. The state government clarified that the project is not state-initiated but a private investment that must adhere to all environmental regulations and obtain the necessary permits from the Secretariat of Environment and Natural Resources of Hidalgo.

As of now, the private company behind the project has not received any operational permits. However, concerned residents claim that waste disposal has already begun at the site. The state government has indicated that if any non-compliance with environmental laws is found, authorities possess the power to impose sanctions on both the company and responsible municipal officials. Protesters are demanding a definitive cancellation of the project, citing risks to public health due to potential water contamination.