Andina

Peru: Gov't orders investigation to determine responsibility for Chancay Bridge collapse

16:00 | Lima, Feb. 14.

Prime Minister Gustavo Adrianzen expressed his condolences to the families of the two victims who lost their lives in the Chancay Bridge collapse. Similarly, he confirmed the immediate launch of an investigation to determine responsibility for the failure of this infrastructure.

"The Supervisory Agency for Investment in Public Transportation Infrastructure (Ositran) will also need to weigh in. If the concessionaire is found responsible, we will ensure they are held accountable," the Cabinet chief emphasized, assuring that those injured in the tragic incident are receiving the necessary medical attention.

The Prime Minister made this announcement from the National Emergency Operations Center (COEN), where he led a working meeting alongside the Congress Chairman, Eduardo Salhuana.

Also present were Defense Minister Walter Astudillo, Environment Minister Juan Carlos Castro, and several Congress members, including Silvia Monteza, Karol Paredes, Raul Huaman, Luis Cordero, Jorge Marticorena, Alex Paredes, and Francis Paredes. Representatives from the National Institute of Civil Defense (Indeci) and the National Meteorology and Hydrology Service of Peru (Senamhi) also attended.

Ensuring Transit and Infrastructure Repairs

Following the meeting, Adrianzen stressed that the Executive Branch is making every effort to restore transit flow after the bridge collapse, ensuring the entry and exit of vehicles from the Chancay Megaport.

"A two-lane bridge approximately 60 meters long will be installed within no more than 12 days. The bridge structure is already being transported to the site for assembly, and a detour plan with proper signage has been implemented to minimize traffic disruption," he explained.

Additionally, the Cabinet chief highlighted that since 2024, the government has been promoting an aggressive program to install small-span bridges across the country to replace outdated and deteriorated infrastructure.

"We are addressing the most urgent and priority situations," he stated.

The Prime Minister also praised the willingness of the Congress Chairman and lawmakers to work closely with the Executive Branch in response to the impact of heavy rains. This cooperation will help facilitate legislative measures to ensure a swift and effective response to emergencies nationwide.

(END) NDP/FHG/CVC/MVB

Published: 2/14/2025