Environmental crises reported in Peru and Guatemala

Residents in El Chical, Peru, are reporting constant sewage overflows from drains in the El Chical basin. The issue, which intensified around May 5, has caused foul odors, contamination, and health risks for residents in the El Chical, Petroleros, Magisterial, and Bancarios urbanizations. Locals criticize EPS Grau for failing to provide a permanent solution, noting that current efforts involving a single, unreliable water pump lack proper disinfection protocols.

In Guatemala, communities near the Manchón Guamuchal coastal ecosystem are warning of significant environmental damage. The closure of the sandbar and sand accumulation in channels have reduced water exchange with the sea, leading to stagnant water and bad odors. This has resulted in the death of fish, clams, and other aquatic species, as well as the deterioration of mangrove forests. Community leaders report that they have been manually attempting to open the sandbar for years, but the lack of dredging machinery has left the situation critical.