Baja California’s Desalination Plant Project Moves Forward
The plans for a desalination plant in Baja California are gaining momentum as water shortages become a looming concern in the region. After years of delay, the state’s proposal for a desalination plant on a 50-acre plot near a power plant in northern Rosarito Beach is seeing progress, with the Mexican government taking ownership of the site. By the end of the year, developers are expected to submit bids for the project.
The urgency for the desalination plant stems from the threat of global warming on future water deliveries from the Colorado River, which is the main water source for Baja California’s coastal regions. With San Diego facing similar challenges, authorities are under pressure to find alternative water sources to secure the region’s water supply.
The idea of a desalination plant in Rosarito Beach has been in discussion for decades, gaining traction in 2016 under former Governor Francisco Vega de Lamadrid. However, the project faced opposition over concerns about its size, environmental impact, and plans to sell water to San Diego County.
Despite challenges, the current state treasury secretary, Marco Antonio Moreno Mexia, remains optimistic about the project’s initial phase, which aims to produce 50 million gallons of drinking water daily. The estimated cost for this phase is around $360 million, with plans for public financing from the federal and state governments to ensure water accessibility for the next 20 years.
The project has faced setbacks, including the cancellation of a contract by former Governor Jaime Bonilla in 2020, leading to demands for compensation from the Mexican government. However, recent developments show progress, with a $36.3 million settlement to cover the cost of the Rosarito Beach parcel and further funding from Mexico’s federal infrastructure fund.
While concerns about the desalination plant continue, specifically regarding transparency and environmental impact, the formation of citizen groups and protests highlight a growing demand for public input and accountability in the project. Baja California residents are calling for transparency and consultation to address the environmental and social implications of the plant.
Baja California Residents Protest Rise in Crime
Amidst concerns about rising crime in Baja California, protests erupted in major cities in response to a series of violent incidents. Led by the business sector, the candlelight protests drew attention to the growing presence of organized crime and the lack of government action to address the issue.
The demonstrations followed the killing of a prominent fishing industry leader in Ensenada, sparking fears and demands for increased security measures. Despite the attorney general ruling out extortion by organized crime as a motive, the incident raised questions about the safety and stability of the region.
The protests, reminiscent of past anti-crime movements, reflect a rising wave of concern among residents regarding public safety and law enforcement. The involvement of citizen groups and advocates underscores a collective call for accountability and action to address the escalating violence in Baja California.
