Puebla, Mexico – Residents of the Tlahuapan municipality in Puebla are nearing 24 hours of blocking both the Mexico-Puebla highway and a federal road, demanding compensation for lands expropriated for infrastructure and conservation projects. The ejidatarios of Santa Rita Tlahuapan are seeking payment for lands used in the construction of the highway and the establishment of the Iztaccíhuatl–Popocatépetl National Park reserve.
The roadblock has left thousands of motorists stranded, including both private vehicle owners and freight operators. Many are seeking alternative routes to continue their journeys, causing widespread disruption in the area. This protest marks the second such blockade in less than a month. On July 12, the ejidatarios similarly closed both roads to demand attention from the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas and the Secretariat of the Environment and Natural Resources.
The protesters have reported receiving threats from state officials, intensifying tensions between the local community and government authorities. They are adamant about maintaining the road closures until their demands for full payment are met. While the ejidatarios previously received more than 170 million pesos in compensation, they now argue that the payment was inadequate and are calling for additional funds, including compensation for additional expropriated hectares.
The ongoing standoff highlights the broader issues surrounding land expropriation in Mexico, where infrastructure and conservation projects often lead to disputes with local communities. The government’s handling of such conflicts is under scrutiny as officials seek a resolution that satisfies both development needs and the rights of landowners.
Local residents and commuters express frustration over the disruption, as the blockade severely impacts daily activities and economic operations in the region. The situation underscores the need for effective dialogue and fair compensation practices to prevent future conflicts and ensure that the rights of local communities are respected in development projects.
As the blockade continues, both sides remain firm in their positions, with the ejidatarios showing no signs of retreating until a favorable resolution is reached. The outcome of this dispute could set a precedent for how similar issues are addressed in the future, highlighting the importance of transparent and equitable processes in land compensation matters.
