This improvement is part of an ambitious project recently revived by the government, in collaboration with the state-owned Korea Expressway Corporation (KEC).

At present, the journey from Guayaquil to Cuenca by land typically takes more than three hours. The duration can vary based on road conditions and the chosen route, with the Guayaquil-Molleturo-Cuenca route being the most direct. However, these travel times could be significantly shortened with the introduction of a new highway designed to connect these two major economic and development centers.

Pablo Cevallos, Secretary of Public-Private Investments, detailed that the government has re-engaged in the Guayaquil-Cuenca highway project with KEC’s involvement. By the end of 2024, the project aims to complete the necessary studies to identify the optimal technical approach for the new highway. These studies are crucial for advancing to subsequent phases of the project.

Cevallos emphasized that while the project entails the construction of a new road, it may not cover the entire distance between Guayaquil and Cuenca. “The objective of the study is to determine where the new road will integrate with the existing state road network in Guayas, which is currently well-maintained,” he explained. This strategic connection is intended to enhance the overall efficiency of the route.

The planned highway is expected to bring multiple benefits, including a significant reduction in travel time and an improvement in service standards. Cevallos highlighted that these advancements will contribute to better road safety, stimulate economic activity, and facilitate greater transportation capacity. The new road is anticipated to enhance both the speed and quality of travel between the two cities.

“Our target is to cut travel times between Guayaquil and Cuenca by one hour. At present, the journey spans three and a half hours, and achieving this reduction is a central goal of our efforts,” Cevallos stated. This ambitious target underscores the government’s commitment to improving infrastructure and connectivity in the region.

The project’s pre-feasibility stage is projected to take between six and eight months, followed by the feasibility stage, which may extend from eight to ten months. Cevallos did not provide specific details regarding the overall cost of the project, the sources of funding, or whether the new road will include tolls. These aspects will become clearer as the project progresses through its initial stages.