Bioceanic Route Bridge Cost Rises Significantly Amidst Final Construction Stages

The Bioceanic Route bridge, a major infrastructure project linking Carmelo Peralta in Paraguay with Puerto Murtinho in Brazil, is nearing its 90% completion mark. However, the mega-project, financed by Itaipú Binacional, has experienced a substantial cost escalation from its original awarded amount.

The bridge's budget has increased by nearly G. 68 billion (US$11.5 million), pushing the total cost from G. 616.8 billion (US$104 million) to G. 684.6 billion (US$116 million). This increment is attributed to additional works and services incorporated through a modification agreement aimed at optimizing access and border control points.

Despite the significant cost overrun, both the Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) and the contracting consortium have remained tight-lipped. Officials, including the MOPC's project lead and the contractor's representative, have not provided details regarding the reasons for the increased expenditure. The project was initially put out to tender by the Carmelo Peralta municipality, a move seen as a maneuver to bypass the need for congressional approval for funds from Itaipú Binacional.