Journalist denounces environmental violations in Punta Bonita megaproject approval

Santo Domingo.- Journalist and broadcaster Nolberto Batista denounced a new environmental controversy involving The Reef, a luxury real estate development in Punta Bonita, Las Terrenas, which is being built on protected coastal wetlands and floodplains. Speaking on the radio program Sol de la Mañana, Batista criticized the approval of an environmental permit for the project, calling it a clear violation of Dominican and international environmental laws.

The project includes 510 apartments, 17 buildings, six pools, and recreational facilities, all within an ecosystem protected under Law 64-00, Law 202-04, and international agreements. Batista pointed out that the approval process was rushed and lacked transparency, occurring over just two weeks in August 2024. Notably, former Environment Minister Miguel Ceara Hatton signed the permit two days before leaving office, raising concerns about irregularities.

Batista urged authorities to review the permit, halt construction, and launch an investigation. He emphasized that the land is still officially classified as a flood zone, putting both the environment and future residents at risk. Calling the project “predatory urban planning with institutional complicity,” he called for accountability from government officials and active involvement from civil society.