Water Service Disrupted in 12 Cuenca Neighborhoods for Three Weeks — Here's the Full List
Cuenca Expat Staff
What's Happening
ETAPA EP began emergency repairs on a 900-millimeter iron water main in the Barrio Central de Miraflores on Friday, March 13. The pipe feeds a huge chunk of Cuenca's east side, and repairs are expected to take approximately three weeks — meaning intermittent water service through early April.
Roads in El Tablón de Miraflores and Barrio Central will also be closed to vehicle traffic during the work.
Which Neighborhoods Are Affected?
ETAPA hasn't published the complete list of all 12 sectors yet, but based on the pipe's location and service area, the affected zones include neighborhoods served by the Miraflores distribution network on Cuenca's east and northeast side. If you're in any of the following areas, expect intermittent pressure drops or full outages during work hours:
- Miraflores (Barrio Central and surrounding sectors)
- Totoracocha
- El Vergel
- Monay
- Unpichán
- Neighborhoods along Avenida Hurtado de Mendoza
ETAPA says they'll try to maintain service through alternate supply lines where possible, but pressure will be low and outages are likely, especially during peak work hours.
Water Tanker Locations
ETAPA is deploying tanqueros (water tanker trucks) to affected neighborhoods. Check El Mercurio's coverage for the latest tanker locations and schedules — they update as ETAPA moves trucks around.
What You Should Do
- Fill your tinaco (rooftop tank) now if you have a manual valve — don't wait for the outage
- Stock up on bottled water — 6-liter jugs at SuperMaxi, Gran Akí, or your corner tienda
- Don't run washing machines or dishwashers during announced work hours
- If you're renting, ask your landlord about the building's water storage capacity
- Download the ETAPA app or follow @ETAPAOficial on X for real-time updates
Road Closures
Vehicle traffic will be restricted in:
- El Tablón de Miraflores — full closure during work
- Barrio Central de Miraflores — partial closures, follow EMOV detour signs
If you normally drive through Miraflores to reach the Autopista or Monay, plan alternate routes via Avenida de las Américas.
Contact
- ETAPA customer service: (07) 413-7000
- ETAPA emergencies: 136
- ETAPA website: etapa.net.ec
