A comprehensive plan to rescue 26 ravines in Mexico City will benefit 1,000 hectares of green areas.

Mexico City launched the Comprehensive Ravine Recovery Plan , an environmental strategy spearheaded by Mayor Clara Brugada Molina . This strategy seeks to restore 26 ravines , which together cover 1,000 hectares of green space . This project aims to reverse the environmental degradation caused by urbanization, deforestation, waste accumulation, and pollution.

The actions will focus primarily on Álvaro Obregón, La Magdalena Contreras, Tlalpan, and Cuajimalpa , with an approach that combines cleanup, reforestation, water restoration, and environmental education.

During the presentation at the Tarango Ravine , located in Álvaro Obregón, Clara Brugada highlighted that ravines are vital for regulating the climate and hydrological cycles in the capital, in addition to serving as a refuge for multiple species of flora and fauna.

The head of the Ministry of the Environment (Sedema) , Julia Álvarez Icaza Ramírez , described this plan as the largest ravine recovery strategy that has been implemented in the city, and defined it as an action of socio-environmental justice that directly involves residents and offers employment alternatives to at-risk youth .

The plan includes comprehensive measures to restore the health of these ecosystems:

• Cleaning of accumulated solid waste .
• Reforestation with native species to strengthen biodiversity.
• Restoration of rivers and bodies of water .
• Improvement and creation of ecological trails for responsible enjoyment.
• Environmental education campaigns aimed at nearby communities.

In addition, the Guardians of the Ravines program will be implemented, with community brigades tasked with monitoring and protecting these environments. Citizens will also have access to a telephone line to report pollution, illegal occupations, or improper activities in the ravines.

The project will involve the participation of various government agencies:

• Sedema : intervention in 7 ravines totaling 203 hectares .
• Secretariat of Integrated Water Management (Segiagua) : work in 3 ravines with 200 hectares .
• Secretariat of Public Works and Services (SOBSE) : actions in 3 ravines with 317 hectares .

This inter-institutional effort seeks not only to improve the landscape and environmental quality, but also to prevent flooding and protect natural areas from urban growth.

A central element of the plan is community involvement at all stages. A temporary employment program will be launched to actively engage residents of nearby areas in care and maintenance efforts.

In Brugada's words, this collaboration fosters community roots and strengthens the bond between citizens and their natural environment, creating a permanent protection network for the ravines.

The restoration of these 26 ravines will bring multiple benefits:

• Improving air quality and regulating temperature.
• Protection of local biodiversity .
• Reduction of risks from floods and landslides .
• Job creation and training for vulnerable communities.
• Greater environmental awareness among Mexico City residents.

The Barrancas Comprehensive Recovery Plan marks a milestone in the capital's environmental policy. With joint actions, community participation, and the support of various agencies, it is hoped that these natural areas will not only be restored, but will also become safe, clean, and vibrant spaces for future generations .

As Clara Brugada emphasized, “caring for the ravines is caring for the green heart of the city,” a commitment now being implemented with a far-reaching ecological and social vision.