Mexico's Seri Aqueduct Brings Water and Hope to the Comcaác People

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has inaugurated the Seri Aqueduct, a major infrastructure project for the Comcaác people. The 78-kilometre underground system, costing 208 million pesos, marks a key step in the government’s Justice Plan for the Seri-Comcaác community. During the event, she also announced new measures to support sustainable tourism and economic growth in the region. The aqueduct’s completion addresses a long-standing issue, as Governor Alfonso Durazo Montaño noted that the Comcaác had endured centuries without reliable water access. He acknowledged that while progress has been made, significant work remains to fully support the community.

President Sheinbaum also provided traditional authorities with a loan to prevent the undervaluation of their hunting tags, which can sell for up to $250,000. Jesús Alfredo Félix Segovia, the Comcaác Nation’s traditional governor, committed to repaying part of the state loan used for community development.

To further aid the region, Sheinbaum instructed Adelfo Regino Montes, head of the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples (INPI), to coordinate with officials from the Ministry of Energy, Ministry of Infrastructure, Communications, and Transportation (SICT), the National Tourism Fund, and the National Commission of Protected Natural Areas. Their task is to create a sustainable tourism plan within 15 days.

The Comcaác have requested upgrades to Caracol Camp on Tiburón Island and Pozo Coyote, seeking infrastructure for low-impact, year-round tourism. Additionally, they are pushing for UNESCO recognition of their New Year’s ceremony as Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. The Seri Aqueduct now provides essential water access to the Comcaác people. With new funding, coordinated efforts, and infrastructure plans, the government aims to boost sustainable tourism and economic opportunities in the region. A working team will soon address pending road projects and further development needs.