Puentes Gemelos bridges in Babahoyo close for urgent repairs

The Puentes Gemelos viaducts on the E25 highway in Babahoyo, Los Ríos, face a complete closure for approximately 15 days due to structural damage. Inspections by the Ministry of Infrastructure and Transport (MIT) and local authorities revealed missing bolts and anchors in the slab supports, likely caused by constant vehicle vibrations.

Technical teams identified that roughly 1,000 bolts are required to reinforce the affected sectors. While one bridge is in better condition and will be prioritized for rapid repair to restore partial traffic, the second structure requires a more in-depth evaluation to determine if parts of the slab need to be replaced and recast.

The closure significantly impacts regional mobility, affecting approximately 20,000 vehicles daily that use the route to connect Babahoyo, Jujan, and Guayaquil. Heavy transport, including trucks and trailers, is being diverted through alternative routes via La Chorrera, El Salto, and the Babahoyo By Pass, while light vehicles may face restrictions depending on the progress of the urgent repairs.