2024-08-13 16:32:52
He passage on the Palín-Escuintla highway is located enabled for light vehicles and heavy transport with less than five axles. The transit of North to South and vice versa alternates every 20 minutes in the two central lanes of the kilometer 44 of the Pacific Route.
The Palín-Escuintla highway is open for vehicles with less than five axles
On Sunday, August 11, the Ministry of Communications, Infrastructure and Housing ―MICIVI― enabled vehicular passage on the Palín-Escuintla highway for light vehicles y heavy transport less than five axles partially restoring connectivity on this important route.
Traffic has been enabled in the two central lanes of the highwaywith an alternating regulation every 20 minutes. Vehicles heading south have access for 20 minutes followed by a similar period for those heading north. The Minister of Communications, Félix Alvarado, reported in a press conference on Monday, August 12 that, due to a curve in the sector and the high risks that could occur in the event of an accident, Vehicles with more than five axles are not permitted to pass through.
Agents from the Traffic Police (PNC) and Provial are in the area regulating traffic, with the aim of guaranteeing the safety of both drivers and personnel still working on the repairs. Authorities recommend that the population follow the instructions of the agents and pay attention to the signs in the area to avoid any type of incident.
When will the route be open to all heavy transport?
At a press conference held on Monday, August 12, Minister Alvarado reported that additional information will be provided to carriers throughout the day. In addition, the route is expected to be fully open for all types of transportation within an estimated period of 40 to 50 days. During this time, work will continue on the remaining lanes, without interrupting traffic on the two central lanes already opened.
Work carried out at km 44 of the Pacific Route
Repairs on the Palín-Escuintla highway began following the undermining recorded on June 13 in the kilometer 44 of the route to the PacificThe work carried out during these two months was reported to be complex from the start. This was due to the need to completely replace the clogged pipe that caused the collapse. This process involved opening the road, replacing a 100-metre-long pipe located at a depth of 22 metres, and then filling and laying asphalt.
To date, Phase 1, which enabled the opening of the two central lanes, has been completed. Phase 2, which includes the repair of the end lanes, is currently in the filling stage. This phase includes the placement of a sub-base, base and asphalt pavement. During the rains recorded on Saturday night, some weaknesses were identified in the crown of the slopes, which are being addressed with temporary waterproofing works to stabilize the area while the retaining walls are built and the filling is carried out.
Authorities reported that work is continuing in collaboration with the highway concessionaire, and it has been announced that an event will be held in the future for the comprehensive maintenance of the route.
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