The aztecs filled in the lago de texcoco to create an island which the spanish then turned into mexico city in 1521 locals rely on the water below the city so the city continues to sink

The Subsiding City of Mexico: A Deep Dive into its History and the Impact of a Sinking Foundation

Mexico City, currently the capital of Mexico, is a vibrant metropolis with a rich history that dates back centuries. It was originally established by the Aztecs in 1325 AD as Tenochtitlan, built on an island in the middle of Lake Texcoco. However, what many people don’t realize is that this bustling city has a unique and precarious geographical situation: it is sinking.

The story begins with the industrious Aztecs, a civilization known for their advanced engineering and architectural prowess. They ingeniously filled in the Lago de Texcoco to create an island upon which they built their magnificent city, complete with intricate canal systems and awe-inspiring pyramids. At the height of its glory, Tenochtitlan was a marvel to behold, a testament to the Aztec’s ingenuity.

However, the arrival of Spanish conquistador Hernán Cortés in 1519 marked the beginning of the end for the Aztec civilization and Tenochtitlan. The Spanish, led by Cortés, laid siege to the city for over three months, resulting in its eventual fall and ultimately the creation of Mexico City in 1521. The Spanish settlers embraced the existing infrastructure of Tenochtitlan and transformed it into the capital of their New Spain.

With the expansion of Mexico City came the gradual disappearance of the lake that once surrounded it. The Aztecs, in their quest for more land, had drained the surrounding lakes and wetlands to create arable fields for agriculture. As a result, the soil underlying the city slowly began to compress and sink.

This sinking phenomenon, known as land subsidence, occurs when the extraction of groundwater causes the soil to compact. Over time, the cumulative effect of this extraction has led to significant subsidence in Mexico City. The problem is further exacerbated by the city’s massive population, which has led to increased demand for water and subsequent groundwater extraction.

The consequences of this sinking foundation are wide-ranging and concerning. Buildings and infrastructure, including roads, bridges, and tunnels, have been severely affected, resulting in tilted structures, cracks, and instability. The sinking has also placed a tremendous burden on the city’s drainage systems, leading to widespread flooding during heavy rainfall.

Moreover, the subsidence has disrupted the city’s water supply. Mexico City relies on the underlying aquifer as a crucial source of freshwater for its residents. However, the sinking ground has tilted and damaged wells, making it challenging to extract water effectively. This poses a serious problem for the local population, as water scarcity becomes a growing concern.

Efforts have been made to address the sinking issue, including the construction of a massive drainage system and the implementation of water management measures. However, the problem persists, and experts predict that Mexico City could sink by up to 30 centimeters (12 inches) annually in the coming years if significant action is not taken.

In conclusion, the sinking of Mexico City is an ongoing concern that stems from the Aztec’s ingenious yet short-sighted plan to create an island on Lake Texcoco. While the city now stands as a bustling metropolis, its foundations are gradually crumbling beneath its surface. The consequences of this subsidence are far-reaching, affecting the city’s infrastructure, water supply, and overall stability. Action must be taken to mitigate the sinking, safeguard the city’s future, and ensure the well-being of its inhabitants.