The Government of Ecuador is overseeing a series of road infrastructure projects in the province of Napo, with investments exceeding USD 37 million. The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) is carrying out these initiatives as part of efforts to improve connectivity and mobility in the Amazon region.
The main project involves maintenance and upgrades on the E45 highway, specifically the section from “Y” de Baeza through Narupa and Huataraco to Coca. This route links the provinces of Napo and Orellana. The Maintenance by Results (MPR) model is being used for this work, which includes both road improvements and a dedicated period for ongoing maintenance.
According to Yésica Aigaje, Subsecretary for Zone 2 at MIT, the intervention covers 182.55 kilometers and involves multiple work teams. The contractor, Consorcio Narupa, is replacing asphalt layers, building drainage ditches and headwalls, and installing horizontal road markings.
Flor Calapucha, who works on the project, said: “This job opportunity provides for my children’s livelihood and ensures timely and dignified transportation for those needing to travel to Pichincha province.” The project has created over 300 jobs.
Another key commitment is rehabilitating the bridge over the Napo River. This 200-meter structure had been in poor condition, affecting both vehicle and pedestrian traffic. Work here includes replacing the road surface entirely, constructing sidewalks, and restoring handrails.
During an inspection visit to various sites, Aigaje reviewed progress on a temporary bypass between El Chaco and the border between Napo and Sucumbíos provinces. She noted that coordinated interventions with organizations such as OCP Ecuador, Corporación Eléctrica del Ecuador (CELEC EP), EP Petroecuador, Sucumbíos Prefecture, and Gonzalo Pizarro’s local government will help restore connectivity between these regions.
Work has also finished redirecting the Coca River. Other ongoing tasks include building protective embankments (espigones), conducting topographical surveys, constructing access points at San Luis and San Carlos, as well as assessing slope stability.
In Los Laureles sector, crews are working on a permanent solution to lower Coca River bank erosion by building a nine-meter-high earth retaining wall extending 50 meters long. They are also installing draining geomembranes to control water seepage.
“In the Government of Nuevo Ecuador we are doing justice with Napo through real works that strengthen mobility, drive productive, tourism and economic development, and improve residents’ quality of life. We will continue working with actions so that Amazonia moves forward safely and hopefully,” said an official statement.
