A new bridge opened Wednesday in the San Miguel community, finally connecting residents over the upper Pacora River after more than three decades of requests. Panama’s Minister of Public Works, José Luis Andrade, led the inauguration ceremony in the San Martín district.
The structure is a 33-meter-long zarzo-type bridge, a design commonly used in rural areas. It features 25 metal railings and protective mesh to ensure safe passage for residents and local students. The Ministry of Public Works (Panama) constructed the project in recent months at an approximate cost of 115,000 balboas.
“These are small works in monetary terms, but giant in benefit for the communities. They bring progress and save lives. These zarzo and Bailey bridge types are the ones I most enjoy inaugurating, seeing the happiness of the people,” said Minister José Luis Andrade. [Translated from Spanish]
For generations, crossing the river posed a severe challenge, particularly during Panama’s intense rainy season. Residents often waited hours for water levels to drop before attempting a dangerous crossing to reach homes, schools, or medical help.
Ending Decades of Risk and Isolation
The bridge directly addresses a critical safety issue. Community members described the Pacora as one of the country’s most dangerous rivers, claiming numerous lives over the years. The inability to cross during floods also exacerbated medical emergencies, accidents, and even snakebite incidents.
One lifelong resident recounted the persistent struggle. “We grew up here and had to cross the deep river on horseback or wait for it to go down. My children did it, and my grandchildren did, the neighbors with their kids. Now with this bridge, the worries are over,” they said. [Translated from Spanish]
Minister Andrade emphasized the project’s role in improving mobility and safety for rural communities. The new infrastructure is expected to provide reliable year-round access, eliminating the seasonal isolation that hampered daily life and economic activity.
The Ministry of Public Works (Panama) has focused on similar rural connectivity projects. This bridge forms part of a broader initiative to install zarzo and Bailey bridges in remote areas where traditional construction is less feasible.
Officials consider the project a vital investment in community welfare. Its completion marks the end of a 30-year wait for San Miguel residents, transforming a longstanding natural barrier into a safe and permanent link.
