The Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) is carrying out efforts to improve road infrastructure in Loja province. Paolo Carpio, the Vice Minister of Infrastructure at MIT, led a series of activities starting December 28 that included site visits to strategic locations. These actions are part of the government’s commitment to enhance development and connectivity in southern Ecuador.
During his visit, Carpio inspected the Oña–Loja road, which links the provinces of Azuay and Loja. Critical points were identified in areas such as Carboncillo, Urdaneta, Sayo, Palo Blanco, and Tenería. The goal is to prioritize interventions that will improve road safety and mobility for residents.
Carpio was joined by Alexandra Jara, Governor of Loja, and Edwin Duque, Zonal 7 Subsecretary at MIT. Together they reviewed completed stabilization work on El Capulí bridge over the Malacatos River—a key structure connecting Loja with Zamora Chinchipe. The project had an investment of USD 787,000. In addition, authorities checked on the construction of a retaining wall along the E35 Loja–Malacatos route. This intervention restored lane width and reopened full traffic flow.
Institutional coordination was also addressed during a meeting between Carpio; representatives from the provincial government including Prefect Mario Mancino; officials from CELEC EP; and other stakeholders. They discussed the condition of local roads and agreed on joint guidelines to strengthen connectivity in the region. “The needs of Loja are a priority for Minister Roberto Luque,” said Carpio during this meeting.
He also highlighted plans to implement an integrated management model and set up rapid-response camps for road emergencies in order to boost state capacity when dealing with incidents affecting transportation.
As part of institutional strengthening efforts, specialized training in “Road Management” was launched for staff in Zone 7. Topics included state road network management systems, pavement administration systems, and pavement condition indices—all aimed at improving technical skills to ensure safe and efficient roads over time.
These measures underscore ongoing government initiatives to promote connectivity, road safety, and overall development across Loja province and southern Ecuador.
