MAZATLÁN, Mexico – Significant structural damage is threatening Mazatlán’s iconic coastal infrastructure, with authorities identifying six major sinkholes along the city’s boardwalk (malecón) and the Paseo Claussen. The damage, which varies in scale from 60 centimeters to 100 meters in length, has caused cracks in the asphalt, lifted sidewalks, and fractures in the local bike paths.

Local and state authorities are currently conducting a supervision and rehabilitation operation to address the damage caused by relentless waves that battered the coastline over several weeks. These waves led to significant beach erosion and the eventual collapse of several sections of the coastal structure.

Monitoring of the area shows that the erosion began in June, affecting various points of the coastal walk. Two specific locations have been identified as major priorities:

Monumento a los Lobos Marinos: Located near the Gran Acuario, this sinkhole measures 70 meters long and 6 meters wide. A budget of 8.7 million pesos has already been authorized from the Federal Maritime-Terrestrial Zone to fund containment works and structural reinforcement.
Hotel Olas Altas Inn Section: Near the baseball monument, this site represents the largest point of collapse, stretching approximately 100 meters in length and 9 meters in width. The damage here has caused significant separation of the asphalt surface and direct impact on the pedestrian and cycling lanes.
Additionally, authorities have identified smaller sinkholes and cavities in the retaining walls of the Paseo Claussen, specifically near the Mujer Mazatleca area, Playa Norte, and the Faro.

The Government of Sinaloa has formalized its commitment to co-finance the comprehensive repair of these areas. A significant investment is expected to be finalized following the completion of mechanical soil studies. To address the complexities of the erosion, a technical analysis table involving colleges of engineers, architects, real estate professionals, and universities is scheduled for October 20.

Governor Graciela Domínguez Nava recently emphasized that the state is working jointly on these repairs, noting that the malecón is not only a vital piece of infrastructure but also a primary attraction for the tourism industry that sustains the region.

Authorities have urged residents and visitors to respect the established barriers and warning signs placed in the construction zones to ensure public safety while repairs are underway.