Coloso: Desperate for Water

(Acapulco, NA 29 November) Neighbors in phases 5 and 6 of the El Coloso housing project have complained that their domestic plumbing has collapsed because of repairs made by CAPAMA, as no water has been provided for over two months. “We have no more money with which to call in tanker trucks,” they said, repeating a now familiar refrain.

The residents called upon the embattled director of CAPAMA, Rigoberto Félix Días, to see for himself the conditions that more than 50 families are facing in the 30 or more buildings. They want him to see what has happened to their plumbing and to give them a firm date when service will be restored. Evidently that will not happen. Mrs. Hermelinda de la Cruz Nava, a resident, explained that the tinacos (large, black plastic cisterns) are all empty and there is no money for tank trucks. “And besides,” she said, “it is the company’s duty to give service to the citizens, especially when they have been paying their bills fully and on time. The fact is that we are desperate . . . out pipes are now stopped up. When there was no water, at least air came out, and now not even that. We are worried and have called CAPAMA so many times. They always say they are coming, but we are still waiting.”

Another neighbor reported that in August, CAPAMA’s operations manager, Baldomero Díaz Corbala, did visit the site, took notes and said the problem would be resolved “in less than one month.” The resident then said, “That was two months ago, and they haven’t even come back. They are irresponsible.” The promise of the current municipal administration of “Water every day for all Acapulqueños” would be laughable if it were not so tragic, the residents agreed.