Paraguay Community Organizes Fundraiser to Repair Dangerous River Ferry

Residents of the Pengo San Miguel colony in Minga Guazú, Paraguay, are launching a collection drive to fund essential repairs for the aging ferry that serves as a vital connection to Los Cedrales. This initiative comes as they continue to await the construction of a long-promised bridge over the Monday River.

Cynthia Leiva, a local resident, explained that the ferry's advanced state of disrepair necessitates a complete overhaul. The planned work includes replacing the base and metal plates, as well as fixing ramps and other components to ensure the vessel's safe operation. The estimated cost for these repairs is 55 million Paraguayan guaraníes.

The community has sought support from various authorities. The Alto Paraná Governorate has pledged 20 million guaraníes, with the remaining funds to be raised through contributions from local families and the public collection event scheduled for August 5th. This effort aims to bridge the financial gap and ensure the ferry remains functional.

Meanwhile, the construction of a new bridge over the Monday River, approved through a $75 million loan from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), faces further administrative hurdles. After congressional approval and promulgation by the executive branch, the project must go through the Ministry of Economy and Finance and the Ministry of Public Works and Communications for tendering. Residents estimate that even with smooth progress, the bridge construction could take at least 18 months, potentially totaling around three years with administrative processes.

Given this extended timeline, the community deems it crucial to repair the ferry. The current vessel requires bailing out two to three times daily due to significant water ingress. For over 20 years, the approximately 400 families, along with students, workers, and the elderly in Pengo San Miguel, have relied on this dangerous ferry crossing for access to essential services, underscoring the urgency of their situation.