The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) of Ecuador has announced the opening of a provisional road variant in San Carlos, located in the province of Napo. This measure aims to restore connectivity affected by regressive erosion from the Coca River.
During a territorial agenda held on December 22 and 23, Paolo Carpio, Vice Minister of Infrastructure, led inspections across several work sites. He confirmed that controlled daytime passage for light vehicles will begin on December 24, 2025. “We are conducting all necessary tests to ensure safe passage through this area. We cannot put people’s lives at risk; therefore, every decision we make strictly follows technical criteria, tests, and specialized analyses that evaluate ground conditions and road safety. We will continue working so everyone can travel safely. I reiterate, the opening will be progressive,” said Carpio.
At a technical meeting with the Cantonal Emergency Operations Committee (COE), Carpio informed local residents and media that circulation for light vehicles and buses previously authorized by the National Transit Agency (ANT) will be allowed starting December 27. The timeline for heavy transport access will be determined after further technical assessments.
Carpio also reviewed progress on key infrastructure projects intended to improve regional mobility. The provisional San Carlos route included earthworks, drainage system installation, and comprehensive formation of the temporary road—steps seen as crucial for reconnecting Napo with Sucumbíos provinces.
Further inspections were carried out at Laureles along highway E20 between Baeza and Papallacta. Here, authorities noted a 95% completion rate on works including roadbed restoration and construction of a gabion wall to stabilize slopes.
On December 22, Carpio began his activities by checking maintenance efforts along the La Florida–Orellana provincial boundary segment—a strategic corridor for local movement. That day he also met with communities in Chontapunta parish to discuss ongoing plans for strengthening road infrastructure and supporting local development.
During these meetings, MIT representatives reported an allocation of USD 7.8 million to Napo’s Prefecture for paving a first-stage 14-kilometer stretch between Florida and José Tanguila. An additional intervention is planned for Campococha–Y de Yuralpa Road (24 kilometers), coordinated with the Amazon Technical Secretariat at an estimated cost of USD 22 million. The government emphasized it would closely monitor how these funds are used: “We will be vigilant so that the funds delivered to the Prefecture translate into concrete works benefiting Napo; these are not just speeches but projects that will be contracted,” stated Carpio.
Progress was also reviewed on construction of a new bridge over the Napo River—a structure measuring 200 meters long now at 45% completion with investment exceeding USD 500 thousand. Current work focuses on casting slabs and tying steel reinforcement essential for structural integrity.
Through these initiatives, Ecuador’s government affirms its commitment to improving transportation infrastructure and promoting development in Napo province.
