Flood evacuees return, but concern grows over rural road damage in Uruguay

Residents displaced by recent river and stream flooding in the Uruguayan departments of Treinta y Tres and Cerro Largo are starting to return to their homes. However, a growing concern among local authorities is the severe damage inflicted upon the rural road infrastructure and the substantial budget required for its restoration.

In Cerro Largo, the situation is particularly dire, with the departmental mayor, Christian Morel, reporting that approximately half of the department's 6,000 kilometers of rural roads sustained damage from the recent heavy rains. Adding to the challenge, a crucial bridge connecting the localities of Paso Pereira and Arévalo is in danger of collapsing, forcing residents to detour. Morel estimates that the central government must provide an additional US$2 million to address the road repairs, as departmental funds are insufficient.

Meanwhile, in Treinta y Tres, Horacio Pintos, head of the Departmental Emergency Coordination Center, described the state of the rural roads as resembling "Sarajevo." While the full extent of the damage is still being assessed due to ongoing waterlogging, the municipality anticipates "millions" in repair costs. In Treinta y Tres, where up to 2,000 people were displaced, about 10% have now returned home as the Olimar River recedes below safety levels. The municipal stadium and several community centers were used to shelter evacuees.

In Cerro Largo, around 200 individuals were displaced, primarily due to the overflow of the Conventos stream in Melo and the Yaguarón River near Río Branco. These individuals are also returning to their homes. Local authorities are implementing a house-by-house review to identify properties needing repair assistance. Current weather forecasts suggest no rain until Thursday, offering a brief respite.

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Sarajevo