Few migrants remain in the Darien Gap, but an environmental crisis has been left behind (apnews.com)
from HellsBelle@sh.itjust.works to world@lemmy.world on 10 May 14:47
https://sh.itjust.works/post/37691640

Panamanian authorities and residents say that with the humanitarian crisis came an environmental crisis that will take years to reverse, while local communities suffer the consequences.

“The water is polluted with garbage,” said Militza Olea, 43, eyeing the red sores still dotting the skin of her 3-year-old nephew days after he bathed in the Turquesa. “We have to be careful. Everyone climbs out of the river with hives on their skin, especially the children.”

It’s been months since migration in the once-untouched jungles and rivers plummeted, but authorities say pollution and other environmental concerns are at a high. They estimate that 2,500 tons of trash were left in the Darien Gap and that just cleaning it up along the migratory route will cost around $12 million.

The most recent test by government hydrologists, in August, showed high amounts of fecal coliform bacteria in the Turquesa River, typically indicating human waste. Communities also found decomposing bodies floating past their homes, leaders said.

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