Mexico City launches joint operation to curb water pollution in Xochimilco canals

The Mexico City government carried out an inter‑institutional operation to protect the Xochimilco lacustrine zone. The environmental secretariat (SEDEMA), the water‑management agency (SEGIAGUA) and the Xochimilco borough coordinated inspections, using a mobile laboratory to conduct rapid on‑site analyses that distinguished rain runoff from sewage discharges.

The results prompted SEDEMA, through its Inspection and Environmental Surveillance Directorate, to open seven administrative proceedings for potential violations of environmental law related to wastewater releases. Meanwhile, the Xochimilco borough, together with the Administrative Verification Institute, launched five verification procedures, two of which imposed precautionary suspensions on activities that were found discharging water into the protected zone. The coordinated actions underscore the authorities’ effort to monitor sources of contamination, enforce regulations, and preserve the biodiversity and cultural heritage of the historic canals.