Guanajuato Mayor Samantha Smith Defends La Bufa Stair Project Amid Environmental Protests

Mayor Samantha Smith Gutiérrez said the concrete stairs built on the upper part of La Bufa were intended to prevent accidents during the annual Día de la Cueva celebration and can be removed if needed. She emphasized the intervention is reversible and aimed at protecting families, children, and seniors.

Environmental groups also accused municipal authorities of allowing indiscriminate cutting of centuries‑old garambullo trees on the Cerro del Perdón during the Ultra Trail México Series race organized with The North Face. Smith announced investigations, promised sanctions through PROFEPA and PAOT, and highlighted plans to re‑plant rescued tree sections.