In Bajo Cauca and Nordeste, concern grows over Serranía San Lucas declared a protected reserve zone
Two Antioquian municipalities are included within a vast 484,270-hectare strip that would be declared a National Integrated Management District (DNMI) or protected area in the Serranía de San Lucas.
TL;DR
- A large area in Serranía de San Lucas, spanning 484,270 hectares, is proposed to be declared a National Integrated Management District (DNMI) or protected zone.
- Two municipalities in Antioquia, Segovia and El Bagre, along with ten in Southern Bolívar, are within this proposed zone.
- Local communities, including miners and farmers, express discontent, stating the measure has not been adequately consulted or built with them.
- The proposal is based on Law 2 of 1959, which created National Natural Forest Reserves, prohibiting activities like logging and mining.
- Concerns are raised that the declaration will negatively impact formal mining operations, even those with environmental licenses and social benefits, potentially leading to closures.
- Representatives argue for updating Law 2 of 1959 instead of declaring a new special reserve zone that ignores current realities.
- There are fears of displacement, increased criminalization of traditional mining communities, and potential unilateral decision-making by the government.
- Issues with the consultation process are highlighted, with complaints that local authorities and communities have not been actively involved.
- The proximity to the end of the presidential term fuels suspicion that the declaration might be rushed for political announcement.