The deterioration of the highway and the old underlying materials are the main causes of the collapse at kilometer 17.5 of the Ruta al Pacífico, in Villa Nueva, according to a report by the Coordinator for Disaster Reduction (Conred).
This report, to which he had access be careful with my pisto Through a request for public information, it evidences the terrible state of the asphalt surface. This condition contributed to the damage of two parallel pipelines located 14 meters deep, causing cracks and a sinkhole in the route. It should be noted that a resurfacing work had recently been carried out in that section.
Also read: The Army advances in the installation of a temporary bridge on the route to the Pacific
Massiel Rodríguez Rustrián and María Chamorro Batres, belonging to Conred’s executive secretariat, have pointed out the importance of evaluating whether the flow of the Platanitos River affects the structure of this pass. In clear terms, it is crucial to determine if the current structure can handle the flow of the river or if it is being overwhelmed.
Although the main influence comes from climatic factors and wastewater, Conred urges a detailed analysis of the site, with a view to implementing improvements in future infrastructure.
From the executing unit Conservación Vial (Covial), its spokesman, Luisiño Sánchez, communicated the need for hydrological studies. This in order to validate possible solutions and establish a schedule. The options on the table are: the repair of the pipes and the construction of a bridge. “It is essential to analyze several aspects: the properties of the soil, the capacity of the roads and the foundations for future bridges. Without that information, it is impossible to determine how much longer the area will be blocked.”Sanchez added.
Closure of lanes en route to the Pacific
Faced with this situation, Conred suggests that the municipality coordinate with the General Directorate of Road Protection (Provial) the closure of both lanes of the CA-9 south while the sector is evaluated and repaired.
As a temporary solution, the Army Corps of Engineers began installing a temporary bridge in the second week of August. This to facilitate the transit of light vehicles. However, heavy vehicles must be diverted through Bárcenas, the Vía Alterna privada del Sur (VAS) and Avenida Petapa.
Rubén Téllez, spokesman for the Ministry of Defense, confirmed that, although the temporary structure is already in place, additional work is required to condition the asphalt. It is expected to be operational by Monday, August 14. [Por Isaias Morales. Vía Ojoconmipisto]
