Guatemala suspends Zoomsa, S. A. operations over river contamination

Authorities in Guatemala have suspended operations at the company Zoomsa, S. A. following investigations into the contamination of the Las Vacas River. The suspension was ordered by the Municipal Affairs Court of Guatemala after inspections revealed pink-colored substances in drains near the company’s facilities in Zone 5, matching the discoloration reported in the river.

The Ministry of Environment and Natural Resources (MARN) has been conducting inspections since mid-September after residents reported intense red and pink coloration in the river near the Belize Bridge and the La Asunción ecological park. Technical teams have examined drainage and sewage systems in Zones 5, 6, 16, and 18.

MARN is working in coordination with the Municipal Water Company (Empagua), the Public Ministry, and the Municipality of Guatemala to identify the exact substance and its origin. Samples from the municipal sewage system have been sent to a laboratory for analysis. Environment Minister Edwin Castellanos stated that authorities are working to locate the discharge point and hold those responsible accountable for the environmental damage.