Semarnat revokes Punta de Mita project concession for environmental violations

The Mexican Secretariat of Environment (Semarnat) revoked the federal maritime-terrestrial zone concession granted to Cantiles de Mita S.A. de C.V. for Playa Las Cocinas in Punta de Mita, Nayarit, after confirming unauthorized construction and environmental violations Source: ExcelsiorSource: InfobaeSource: MilenioSource: Jornada.

What happened

The company, part of Grupo Dine, had developed works without authorization from the Zofemat authority Source: Excelsior. The planned "Montage" complex included:

• 145 hotel rooms, more than 60 luxury residences, spas and restaurants.
• Total area of 209,000 square meters.
• The site is a critical nesting habitat for leatherback, golfina, and hawksbill turtles Source: Jornada.

Community reaction

Since April, residents and activists from Punta de Mita and Emiliano Zapata protested, accusing the project of privatizing the last public beach in the area Source: Infobae. The protests saw allegations of arbitrary detentions by state police Source: Jornada. Activists had demanded the project's cancellation, warning of ecological damage and restricted access.

What's next

Semarnat announced a new strategy focused on environmental restoration, erosion control, and nature-based solutions to recover native vegetation and ensure free public transit on the beach Source: Milenio. The resolution was coordinated with Profepa, the Attorney General's Office (FGR), and local communities Source: Excelsior. The move follows the May rejection of Royal Caribbean's Perfect Day project in Mahahual, marking the second major cancellation by the current administration Source: Jornada.