President Daniel Noboa Azin announced on March 19 the beginning of the rehabilitation work on the Cuenca – Molleturo – El Empalme road, a key route connecting Ecuador’s Sierra and Costa regions.
The project is significant as it aims to improve one of the country’s main transportation corridors, which supports commerce and benefits not only over 800,000 residents of Azuay but also people across Ecuador. The investment for this initiative is USD 21.8 million, with expectations to create 300 jobs.
“We are investing USD 21.8 million in this highway to consolidate it as a strategic route for commerce, which will generate 300 jobs and benefit the entire country, not just more than 800,000 inhabitants of Azuay,” said President Noboa during the event.
Roberto Luque, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, said that the work will be carried out with high engineering, environmental, and social standards due to its passage through Cajas National Park. He reported that approximately 113 kilometers of roadway will be rehabilitated. The project includes partial functional rehabilitation of rigid pavement and asphalt layers, maintenance of drainage systems such as culverts and ditches, upkeep of ten bridges, stabilization at five critical slope points, and comprehensive renewal of road signage.
The intervention is part of the Emergency Resilient Reconstruction Project led by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport with support from the World Bank. Boris Weber, representing the international organization, reiterated their commitment to supporting actions aimed at improving citizens’ quality of life and strengthening responses to climate effects.
Local entrepreneurs have welcomed the government’s efforts. Maira Loja, owner of a store selling products from both coastal and highland regions, said that this action will allow them to distribute goods without delays and keep them fresh.
The project is being implemented during what has been called the Year of Construction by President Noboa’s administration. It underscores a commitment to infrastructure projects that enhance connectivity and address citizens’ needs. “Start up the machines and let’s begin rehabilitating this road that connects families, connects production, generates employment,” concluded President Noboa.
