Tamaulipas water projects confront mangrove threat and maintain supply

The proposed Dique Moralillo dam on the Pánuco River, intended to boost water delivery to the Tampico, Ciudad Madero and Altamira conurbations, has drawn criticism from environmental specialists. They warn that the project could eliminate approximately 2,000 hectares of mangrove forest along the river estuary, endangering biodiversity, fisheries, agriculture and natural flood protection. Adrián Varela Echavarría of Pronatura Noreste stressed that “the biodiversity is not a brake on development; it is the natural infrastructure that makes it possible,” urging exhaustive environmental studies before construction.

Separately, authorities in Nuevo Laredo have confirmed that the city's water supply remains secure and that no water rationing (tandeo) will be imposed. Gustavo Pantoja, head of the Centro de Estudios del Río Bravo, said human consumption is prioritized in the river basin and that current river levels are sufficient, despite earlier concerns when the La Amistad dam fell to 17% capacity. He noted, “Nuevo Laredo is not in trouble regarding water supply for the population.”