Police disperse protest with tear gas in Tlaxcala; residents reject waste recycling center

Tensions flared in Atlangatepec, Tlaxcala, as riot police deployed tear gas to break up a demonstration by local residents protesting the construction of a waste recycling center. The inhabitants voiced strong opposition, fearing the facility will lead to contamination of their environment, water sources, and overall quality of life.

Residents expressed deep concern that the proposed "Polo de Desarrollo de Economía Circular para el Bienestar" (PODECIBI), a circular economy hub, is slated for construction less than a kilometer from their homes. They argue that such a facility would essentially create a "landfill" in their vicinity, posing an unacceptable risk.

The state government, however, asserted that the protesters hindered essential technical and environmental studies. These studies, officials claim, are crucial for scientifically evaluating the project's feasibility and addressing community concerns with objective data. The government also reported confrontations between protesters and National Guard elements.

Protesters, holding banners and chanting slogans, demanded the project's suspension until independent environmental impact assessments are completed and community participation in decision-making is guaranteed. The situation highlights a clash between development initiatives and local environmental and health concerns.

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Nos van a contaminar y nosotros queremos proteger la naturaleza, el agua y la vida. Quieren instalar el polo de economía circular a menos de un kilómetro de las viviendas y un basurero.