Cuenca–Pasaje Road Closures Are Stretching Trips and Raising Costs

Road restrictions on the Cuenca–Girón–Pasaje connection are forcing vehicles to use the route through Cuenca–Molleturo–El Empalme to reach Machala and Pasaje, according to an August 12 report by El Mercurio.

A regular trip takes about four hours. The alternate route can take six to seven hours, adding time for passengers and extra operating costs for transport companies.

The cost of the detour

Some transport operators report fuel costs rising by $50 to $60. For Cuenca Express, the cost of fuel for a run rose from about $40 to approximately $60.

The normal fare is $8.75, but some passengers have reportedly been charged an additional $2 without authorization from the Agencia Nacional de Tránsito (ANT).

The disruption is also affecting producers. The report says some are having trouble bringing crops to Cuenca or Machala and are selling locally at lower prices instead.

What the transport ministry says

The Ministerio de Infraestructura y Transporte (MIT) says the road is closed at kilometer 90 because of a recurring landslide, and a contractor is clearing the area. Heavy transport is restricted at kilometer 50, where a third stabilization wall and additional road work are planned.

Light vehicles are being controlled while heavy vehicles remain restricted. MIT says it has two emergency contracts in place, with permanent works planned by the end of the year and an intervention planned for a sinkhole at kilometer 22.

Practical takeaway

Anyone traveling between Cuenca and the southern corridor should confirm the route and expected travel time before leaving. Bus passengers should also ask for the official fare and keep a record of any surcharge; the report does not say that the extra $2 has been authorized.

For households and businesses, the longer route matters beyond inconvenience: it can affect deliveries, market access, and the price at which locally produced goods reach larger cities.

Source: El Mercurio