Mexico's Seri Aqueduct Brings Clean Water to the Comcaác After Centuries of Scarcity

Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum Pardo has officially opened the Seri Aqueduct, a major infrastructure project designed to bring clean water to the Comcaác people. The 78-kilometre underground system, built at a cost of 208 million pesos, marks a key step in the government’s Justice Plan for the Indigenous community. Local leaders and officials gathered to highlight both the progress made and the challenges still ahead.

The aqueduct’s completion comes after centuries of water scarcity for the Comcaác. Sonora Governor Alfonso Durazo Montaño called the project a modest investment with deep importance, finally addressing a basic need for the community. He admitted, however, that much work remains to fully support the region.

During the ceremony, President Sheinbaum directed Adelfo Regino Montes, head of the National Institute of Indigenous Peoples (INPI), to coordinate efforts across agencies. She ordered the allocation of resources to meet all outstanding community demands, framing it as a matter of social justice. The president also handed traditional authorities a loan to prevent the undervaluing of their hunting tags, which can sell for up to $250,000 each. Beyond water access, the Comcaác are pushing for broader development. They have requested help with infrastructure, training, machinery, and a cold-chain system for their fishing industry. Their leaders are also seeking UNESCO recognition for their New Year’s ceremony as Intangible Cultural Heritage. President Sheinbaum announced a cross-agency team would arrive within 15 days to tackle pending tasks. Officials from the energy and transport ministries, along with tourism and conservation bodies, will work on sustainable tourism plans, simplify hunting permits, and cut out middlemen. Jesús Alfredo Félix Segovia, the Comcaác’s traditional governor, promised to repay part of the state loan and build a high-value, community-run tourism model.

The Seri Aqueduct now delivers water to a community long denied this essential resource. With further funding and inter-agency cooperation, the government aims to expand economic opportunities and infrastructure for the Comcaác. The next steps include finalising road projects, refining tourism strategies, and securing international recognition for their cultural traditions.