Xochimilco, Mexico City – The renowned chinampas of Xochimilco, a unique agricultural system and a cultural heritage site recognized by UNESCO since 1987, are facing significant challenges due to a notable decline in investment for their maintenance and sanitation. Recent data from the National Transparency Platform (PNT) reveals a 30% decrease in funding allocated for the upkeep of the canals from 2019 to 2024, raising concerns about the preservation of this vital ecological and cultural landmark.
A Decrease in Investment
According to a report by the Xochimilco municipality obtained through an information request (092075324001609) made by Reporte Índigo, the investment in the chinampas area has seen a marked decline over the past five years. The data shows a decrease in resources allocated to maintaining and sanitizing the canals, crucial components of the chinampa system that contributes significantly to the ecological viability of the region.
In 2019, the Xochimilco mayor’s office allocated 24 million pesos for canal maintenance. However, this amount decreased by 29% to 17 million pesos in 2020. Although there was a slight increase to 18 million pesos in 2021, it remained 22% below the 2019 level. The trend continued with a sharp decline to 12 million pesos in 2022, representing a 49% drop from 2019. In 2023, the investment rebounded to 19 million pesos but was still 18% less than the amount allocated in 2019. For 2024, the investment fell again to 15 million pesos, a 37% decrease compared to 2019.
Cultural and Ecological Significance
The chinampas of Xochimilco are not only a testament to the ingenuity of ancient agricultural practices but also play a crucial role in sustaining the local ecosystem. The Xochimilco mayor’s office highlights the importance of the chinampas, emphasizing their exceptional universal value as a “testimony of the ancient human manipulation of a natural territory.” The chinampas allow for high agricultural productivity, producing a variety of vegetables such as spinach, chard, radishes, and more, in a lake environment.
UNESCO recognizes the chinampas as a reference for the lake culture of the Valley of Mexico, underlining their significance in maintaining the ecological balance of the capital. Despite this recognition, the decreasing investment raises concerns about the sustainability of these agricultural lands and their ability to continue providing ecological and cultural benefits.
Challenges and Concerns
Ignacio, a long-time resident of the Caltongo neighborhood in Xochimilco, expresses concern over the pollution affecting the canals, which are part of the world heritage site. He points to the proliferation of irregular settlements in chinampa neighborhoods such as Xicalhuacán over the past two decades as a significant source of pollution.
“People bought land in good faith, and little by little it became filled with people where there used to be only chinampas,” Ignacio explains. He notes the lack of proper drainage in some areas, leading residents to dispose of waste in the canals. This issue is compounded by the smell of sewage and detergent pollution in the waterways, raising health and environmental concerns.
Additionally, Ignacio criticizes local politicians for allowing such developments, suggesting that political support and votes are gained by permitting these settlements without ensuring adequate infrastructure and services.
The Impact of Tourism
Uncontrolled tourism also poses a threat to the integrity of the chinampas and canals. The Caltongo Pier is a popular tourist destination where visitors often engage in activities that harm the environment. Despite recommendations to limit alcohol and maintain cleanliness, some trajinera owners allow excessive drinking and littering, further exacerbating the pollution problem.
“The excess is still allowed because it continues to generate money,” Ignacio laments, highlighting the challenges of balancing tourism and conservation.
Efforts and Future Steps
In response to these issues, the Mexico City Government inaugurated a drainage project in Xicalhuacán on July 9, aimed at preventing flooding and reducing waste disposal in the canals. The initiative is part of a broader effort to improve residents’ quality of life, ensure legal security for property owners, and protect the sustainability of the Xochimilco canals.
“Doing these works implies three benefits: it improves the quality of life of the people, allows them to work directly for the regularization of their lots, and helps to take care of the sustainability of the city by protecting the canals of Xochimilco,” stated Martí Batres, head of the capital government.
Despite these efforts, the ongoing decline in investment highlights the need for a more robust commitment to preserving the chinampas. Ensuring their maintenance and sanitation is crucial not only for the ecological health of the region but also for preserving an invaluable cultural heritage that continues to define the identity and history of Xochimilco.
