A report from Quepos Health Area presented a series of problems that are taking place in Manuel Antonio National Park, which represent a clear health risk for tourists and workers of the center.
As consequence, this unit from the Ministry of Health requested the temporary closure of the park due to non-compliance with a series of improvements required weeks ago.
However, the Regional Directorate of the Central Pacific Area did not accept the request and decided to grant an extension of 3 months so that the Ministry of Environment (MINAE) and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) can solve the problems reported in an ocular inspection conducted this week in Quepos.
The report issued by Quepos Health Area on February 14th, 2017 stated the following:
-Failure to comply with Law 7600.
-There are sediments in drinking water tanks.
-Broken caps
-Broken tanks.
-There are wastewaters in the area.
-Unhealthy and foul-smelling sanitary services.
-Plague of rodents.
-Stagnant water.
-Mosquitoes breeding sites.
the MINAE explained that the recommendations of the sanitary order are already being addressed with contracts and procedures that are in process and will be implemented during 2017.
In addition, the entity said it will invest 550 million colones for the development of infrastructure, expansion of access and improvements in water use. Likewise, the entity explained that due to the high tourist visits, closing the park is not an option.