Submission

Summary of the matter addressed in the submission:

The Submitters assert that the lower basin of the Nazas River has deteriorated at an accelerated pace in recent years due to the construction of water infrastructure projects (dams) which have altered the river’s natural flow. The Submitters assert that the dams have led to water scarcity, dryness of the riverbed, and a reduction in groundwater recharge. The Submitters also maintain that these dams have impacted local ecosystems, resulting in a loss of forest cover in riparian areas and triggering a state of emergency for the main aquifer in the region (Acuífero Principal Región Lagunera).

The Submitters assert that by developing and operating dams in the Nazas River Lower Basin, Mexico is failing to effectively enforce its environmental laws to protect, restore, and ensure sustainable use of ecosystems and natural resources. The Submitters also assert that Mexico is failing to meet its obligations to maintain ecological balance and protect the human right to a healthy environment.

Names and citations of the environmental laws in question:

The Submitters cite provisions from the National Waters Act (Ley de Aguas Nacionales – LAN), the General Act on Ecological Balance and Environmental Protection (Ley General del Equilibrio Ecológico y la Protección al Ambiente – LGEEPA), and the General Act on Sustainable Forest Development (Ley General del Desarrollo Forestal Sustentable – LGDFS).

Submitter(s):

Prodefensa del Nazas, A.C.