Mexico's bold plan to save its collapsing aquifers from crisis

Nearly 40% of Mexico's aquifers are beyond recovery—now, a radical reform could turn the tide. Will stricter rules and rainwater revival save the nation's water future?

, and Administrator

2026 April 3 . 11:03 AM

1 min read

The image shows an aerial view of a large body of water with a dock in the middle, surrounded by... — The image shows an aerial view of a large body of water with a dock in the middle, surrounded by buildings, sheds, vehicles, cranes, and other objects. In the background, there are trees, hills, and a clear blue sky. This image is likely of the construction of a new water treatment plant in the US.

Mexico's bold plan to save its collapsing aquifers from crisis

A new proposal aims to reform Mexico's National Waters Law to tackle the worsening water crisis. Senator Gilberto Hernández Villafuerte, from the Green Party, presented the initiative to protect and restore the country's dwindling aquifers. The plan includes stricter penalties for polluters and measures to boost water recharge in critical areas. Mexico's 653 aquifers supply nearly 40% of the nation's water, yet 245 of them—38% of the total—are no longer usable due to overexploitation, contamination, or saltwater intrusion. The most severe cases are in the Bajío region (Guanajuato and Querétaro), the Valle de México, the Baja California Peninsula, and Sonora, where 52 aquifers are now critically endangered.

The initiative seeks to reverse this decline by enforcing stronger monitoring of groundwater extraction. It also proposes clearer boundaries for natural recharge zones and encourages both natural and artificial infiltration of rainwater and treated water. Overuse and pollution have already caused soil subsidence, saltwater intrusion, and worsening water quality, affecting rural and urban communities alike.

To address these issues, the reform introduces tougher sanctions for those who contaminate water sources or fail to implement restoration measures. The goal is to ensure more sustainable water use while safeguarding supplies for future generations. If approved, the reform would mark a significant shift in how Mexico manages its groundwater. The proposed measures target illegal extraction, pollution, and inefficient use—key factors behind the current crisis. With nearly two-fifths of aquifers already depleted, the changes aim to stabilise water security for both households and industries.