SIMAS reports surge in drainage failures after rains in Monclova and vandalism threats in Torreón

In Monclova, recent heavy rains led to the collapse of sanitary drainage systems after manhole covers were removed and debris such as trash, mattresses and even a Christmas tree entered the network. Eduardo Campos, general manager of the Intermunicipal Water and Sanitation System (SIMAS), said daily reports of drainage problems rose from about 20 to more than 90, affecting neighborhoods including Chinameca, Occidental, Miravalle, the city centre and eastern districts. He urged residents to keep streets clean and avoid removing manhole covers.

Separately, SIMAS Rural in the northern part of Torreón is confronting frequent vandalism of wells and cesspools, with incidents including cable cuts, equipment damage and gate removal. José Antonio Gutiérrez Jardón, the agency’s manager, said weekly failures are now common and the organization is evaluating the installation of surveillance cameras, electrified fences and expanded night‑time monitoring to protect water supply infrastructure.