TOO MUCH TULUM: Authorities take aim at over-development

Mexican environmental authorities are claiming the Caribbean resort of Tulum has authorized too much development, the latest blow to what was long considered one of Mexico’s most laid-back, easy-going resorts.

Unlike Cancun or Playa del Carmen, Tulum was long a quiet haven, best known for its Mayan temple that stands beside a Caribbean beach. But the resort has been expanding into the low jungle around it, and there have been numerous disputes over beach-side properties.

The federal Environment Department said Tulum had passed zoning codes that “change land uses to promote and permit urban growth and real estate development, with negative repercussions on ecosystems.”

It said the local zoning code was unacceptable, adding that cutting down of forested areas under the code would be considered illegal and that action would be taken against offenders.

The department said it would seek to have the zoning code overturned.

Tulum, recently, has also seen increased gang activity and high-profile cases of alleged police brutality.