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Mexico's Hondo River floods worsen as trash clogs waterways after heavy rains

A river choked with debris becomes a ticking flood bomb. Residents demand action as Naucalpan battles rising waters—and the garbage fueling the crisis.

The image shows an aerial view of a flooded area in the middle of a city, with buildings, trees,...
The image shows an aerial view of a flooded area in the middle of a city, with buildings, trees, poles, vehicles on the road, a bridge, and water visible. This image is a stark reminder of the devastating effects of the Japan earthquake and tsunami, which has caused the city to be devastated by the disaster.

Mexico's Hondo River floods worsen as trash clogs waterways after heavy rains

The Hondo River in Naucalpan, Mexico, has become a growing hazard as waste buildup worsens flooding in nearby neighbourhoods. After heavy rain on 11 May caused the river to overflow, local authorities have stepped up cleanup efforts and safety measures. The 16-kilometre-long Hondo River flows from Huixquilucan through multiple Naucalpan districts before joining the Western Interceptor hydraulic system. It carries not only local debris but also runoff from the highlands of Álvaro Obregón borough in Mexico City. Over time, trash has clogged the river, raising flood risks during storms.

On 11 May, torrential rain pushed the river over its banks, flooding areas like Rivera de Echegaray, 10 de Abril, and Pastores. Residents, including María de Jesús from Pastores, blame the worsening floods on the unchecked waste accumulation. Blockages prevent proper water flow, forcing overflows into streets and homes.

In response, Naucalpan’s Water and Sanitation Agency (OAPAS) has removed 200 tons of rubbish from the river this year as part of ongoing cleanup campaigns. Meanwhile, Civil Protection authorities evacuated 41 people from three unstable homes built in an irregular zone along the riverbank. The municipal government has also started administrative reviews to assess the structural safety of at-risk properties.

Despite these efforts, the river continues to carry debris from upstream areas, keeping the threat of new floods alive. The Hondo River remains a persistent challenge for Naucalpan, with waste-related blockages increasing flood dangers during heavy rains. Cleanup operations and safety inspections are underway, but the risk persists for neighbourhoods along its path.

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