Interior

River crossing failing

Less than two months after it was build, a ford over the Río Guararé that connects the communities of Guararé Arriba and Perales has begun to show signs of wear and tear.

The project, which was built by the Programa de Desarrollo Comunitario (Prodec) of Los Santos at a cost of $67,000, has started to show cracks in the cement slab. Additionally, the base of the ford has started to deteriorate.

Dilian García, a resident of Guararé Arriba, said that the ford is vital for farmers in the region because they need the river crossing to get supplies to their fields and livestock.

The ford is also a key link used by dairy producers in the region. If it fails, it could mean that 45,000 liters of milk will not be able to make it to the market.

Local officials said that the river crossing is the shortest way to get between the communities of Guararé Arriba and Las Tablas. Furthermore, the alternate route between the two communities, in addition to being much longer, is in a serious state of disrepair, and would need to be upgraded if the ford becomes unusable.

Fellow resident Rubén Darío Ríos said that the ford was not built properly, and that vehicles crossing it will be placed in danger if changes are not made immediately.

Los Santos Prodec Manager Noé Herrera said that the contractor, Arrovilla S.A., started work on the project without it being finalized.

Herrera said that a final inspection of the work has not yet taken place, and the company will be responsible for making any needed repairs.