Residents of Metapa de Domínguez, a small town in Chiapas, have taken to the streets again, calling for the relocation of a sterile fly production plant that aims to control the New World Screwworm. Since its opening in June, the strong odor coming from the facility has become a significant concern, affecting daily life and raising health issues. Locals describe the smell as similar to rotting meat, creating an unpleasant and disruptive environment, particularly for children attending nearby schools.
In response to ongoing complaints, the protest follows a three-day sit-in earlier this month after government representatives promised to address the residents’ grievances. However, residents report that the odor has persisted, causing further disruption to classes and daily routines. Mercedes Becerra de la Cruz, a local truck driver, articulated the community’s frustration, stating, “We don’t care about the investment; we want this plant moved, because the smell is overwhelming.”
The protest underscores a growing tension just months after President Claudia Sheinbaum and U.S. Agriculture Secretary Brooke Rollins inaugurated the $51 million facility as a vital part of efforts to combat a screwworm outbreak affecting the cross-border cattle trade. While the Mexican government highlights the plant’s importance for the livestock industry and public health, residents feel their concerns have not been adequately addressed.
The facility breeds millions of sterile pest flies in a controlled environment to combat a parasite known to burrow into warm-blooded animals, posing significant health risks. Unfortunately, as the smell continues to worsen, residents assert that promises made by officials remain unfulfilled. A spokesperson for the community expressed hope for a resolution by December 16, warning that failure to address the odor could lead them to resume road blockades and other forms of protest.