President Daniel Noboa Azin announced on March 19 the beginning of the rehabilitation work for 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 transportation for more than 800,000 residents in Azuay and benefit the entire country by enhancing a strategic commercial corridor. The investment totals USD 21.8 million and is expected to create 300 jobs.
“We are investing USD 21.8 million in this road to consolidate it as a strategic route for commerce, which will generate 300 jobs and benefit the whole country, not just the more than 800,000 inhabitants of Azuay,” said President Noboa during the event.
Roberto Luque, Minister of Infrastructure and Transport, said that approximately 113 kilometers of roadway will be rehabilitated using high engineering, environmental, and social standards due to its passage through Cajas National Park. The work 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 initiative 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 support actions aimed at improving citizens’ quality of life and strengthening responses to climate effects.” Local entrepreneurs have welcomed the government’s efforts; Maira Loja, who owns a shop selling products from both coastal and highland regions, said this action will allow them to distribute goods without delays or spoilage.
The project also aligns with what has been called the Year of Construction by President Noboa’s administration. “Start up the machines and let’s begin rehabilitating this road that connects families, production centers, and generates employment,” concluded President Noboa.
