Monte Plata bridge collapse leaves communities isolated

Heavy rains and the rising waters of the Ozama River have caused the total collapse of a provisional bridge connecting the communities of Don Juan and Yamasá in the Monte Plata province. The destruction of this temporary structure, which had been in place for approximately one year following the collapse of the original bridge, has left thousands of families isolated and disrupted agricultural and commercial activities in the region.

Local residents and officials, including the director of the Don Juan Municipal Board, Leoncito José, have called for urgent intervention from President Luis Abinader and the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC). There are reports of residents attempting to cross the site using improvised ladders, posing significant safety risks. Additionally, some citizens have reported being charged RD$200 to cross the area.

The political organization Fuerza del Pueblo has criticized the government for a perceived lack of maintenance and planning regarding the infrastructure. They have requested the immediate installation of a secure Bailey-type provisional bridge to restore transit while a permanent solution is developed. The province remains under a yellow alert as authorities monitor continued rainfall and river levels.