environment
February 15, 2026
Mining has Sopetrán in suspense: complaints of illegality and destruction
The exploitation of drag materials would be damaging the landscape and even an ancient bridge in this colonial corregimiento of San Nicolás, in Sopetrán...
TL;DR
- A conflict exists in San Nicolás, Sopetrán, between tourism/environmental advocates and sand/stone extraction companies.
- Environmental groups accuse mining operations of damaging the landscape, riverbeds, and historical structures, citing noise and dust pollution.
- Complaints have been filed with authorities like Corantioquia, leading to orders to cease operations, which are reportedly not being followed.
- Local tourism businesses report declining investments due to the negative impacts of mining activities, such as increased heavy vehicle traffic and dust.
- Cemex denies direct responsibility, stating that unauthorized third parties are causing the damage, and claims to have filed administrative complaints.
- Some mining companies, like Arenas y Triturados Sahara, defend their operations, stating they are legal and do not require environmental licenses, while others are hostile to inquiries.