Ecuador Highway Closed Again After Rockslide
Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- The Cuenca–Girón–Pasaje highway in Ecuador has been closed again due to a rockslide at kilometer 90.
- Road crews are working to clear the debris, but no timeline has been given for reopening the route.
- An alternate route via Cuenca–Molleturo–El Empalme–Naranjal–Machala is available for travelers.
The vital Cuenca–Girón–Pasaje highway in Ecuador has been shut down once more following a significant rockslide. The closure, which took effect on August 1, 2026, occurred at kilometer 90 in the sector known as La Virgen. This marks another disruption for travelers using this key route.
The road was closed this August 1, 2026, due to a rockslide recorded at kilometer 90, in the La Virgen sector.
Crews from the contracting company are currently on-site, working diligently to remove the dislodged rocks and clear the roadway. However, officials have not yet provided an estimated time for when the road will be reopened to vehicular traffic. Drivers are advised to exercise caution and stay informed about the situation.
For those needing to travel between Cuenca and the southern coast, an alternative route has been established. Motorists can use the Cuenca–Molleturo–El Empalme–Naranjal–Machala road. Authorities strongly recommend consulting official channels for any updates or changes to road conditions before embarking on their journey.
Travelers can use the Cuenca–Molleturo–El Empalme–Naranjal–Machala route while the closure continues.
This latest incident follows a previous closure on July 29 due to another rockslide in the Virgen de Pachamama sector, near the same kilometer marker. While traffic was partially restored with controlled passage on July 31, the new rockfall necessitates a complete closure. Authorities are urging the public to respect all signage and follow instructions from personnel working at the site.
Yes. On July 29, drivers alerted about another rockslide in the Virgen de Pachamama sector, near kilometer 90.
Originally published by El Comercio in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.