The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC), led by Eduardo Estrella, has ordered the total closure of traffic at kilometer 7 of the Ocoa highway, at the intersection towards this province. The main reason is a landslide affecting a key section, which makes interruptions necessary to build a provisional crossing and advance with comprehensive interventions.
This measure, planned in advance, seeks to minimize risks for drivers and residents of the Southern region. The MOPC emphasizes that permanent works will guarantee greater road safety in this area prone to landslides due to heavy rains and unstable terrain.
Causes of the landslide on the Ocoa highway
The incident occurred about 4 kilometers before reaching San José de Ocoa, according to initial reports from the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transportation (Digesett). Factors such as recent rainfall and the natural wear of the terrain have contributed to these events, which are common in mountainous roads of the Dominican Republic. Historically, the Ocoa highway has faced similar landslides, such as in past hurricane seasons, highlighting the need for structural reinforcements.
Recommended alternate routes to avoid the total traffic closure
To bypass the blockage on the Ocoa highway, authorities suggest the route via Ocoa-Piedra Blanca-Bonao, connecting with the Duarte Highway. This option applies to both light and heavy vehicles, traveling from Santo Domingo or vice versa.
- From Santo Domingo: Take the Duarte Highway to Piedra Blanca, then towards Ocoa.
- From Ocoa: Reverse the route for better flow.
- Respect signage and avoid risky maneuvers.
Impact and safety recommendations
The Digesett temporarily halted traffic earlier this Saturday, urging caution especially for heavy trucks. The MOPC appreciates citizen understanding and reminds that these actions prioritize lives over immediate convenience. Statistics from the National Institute of Transit and Land Transport indicate that landslides cause up to 15% of traffic accidents in rural areas, underlining the importance of these preventive interventions.
Consulted road engineering experts highlight that works like those of the MOPC on the Ocoa highway could reduce incidents by 40% in the medium term, based on similar projects in the Central Cordillera. Meanwhile, users report moderate congestion on the alternate route, but without major complications.
The total traffic closure on the Ocoa highway due to a landslide is progressing with constant monitoring, promising prompt restoration and more resilient roads.