The Cuenca-Girón-Pasaje highway, one of Ecuador’s most problematic routes due to geological faults, will remain closed until at least mid-October 2024, according to the Minister of Transport and Public Works.

Transport Minister Roberto Luque confirmed that an extensive study is underway to address the sections of the highway deemed unsafe for traffic. He characterized this road as one of the most critical in the country, primarily due to its susceptibility to geological issues.

“Cuenca-Girón-Pasaje is among the most challenging roads in Ecuador, with the highest concentration of critical points per kilometer, largely due to geological factors,” Luque stated.

Luque explained that a comprehensive macro study is being conducted to resolve these vulnerabilities. “It’s a costly project, but it must be done,” he told reporters during an October 2, 2024, visit to the area.

For now, the Ministry has announced that around a dozen dump trucks and four excavators are working double shifts at kilometer 114, in the Vivar sector, where the collapse of a sewer has caused severe erosion of one lane.

The Ministry of Transport and Public Works, in coordination with the Public Company Asfaltar, originally planned to intervene in mid-October. However, recent heavy rains accelerated the deterioration, prompting immediate action starting Tuesday, October 1st.

Road Closure to Last at Least Two Weeks

MTOP Zonal 6 Undersecretary Hugo Vásconez explained, “To replace the sewer, excavation will need to reach a depth of 19 meters over an area of 60 by 50 meters. This means the road will remain closed for at least two weeks.”

He also emphasized that the technical and operational teams are working double shifts around the clock. “Work is being carried out 24 hours a day to reopen the road as quickly as possible,” Vásconez said.

As excavation continues, workers are assembling new sections of the sewer, each measuring two meters in diameter and 60 meters in length, which will replace the damaged infrastructure.

The influx of workers has provided a boost to the local economy, particularly in the Sarayunga community, where local businesses are supplying food and accommodations for the 50 laborers involved in the project.

Alternative Routes

For those traveling between Azuay and El Oro, alternative routes have been designated.

Light vehicles can use the Chilcaplaya-Uzhcurrumi-Quera route, while heavy transport is being redirected via the Cuenca-Molleturo-El Empalme and Zhud-Cochancay-El Triunfo routes.