BTN News: On August 29, 2024, the long-awaited construction of the Troncal del Magdalena 2 corridor, connecting Sabana de Torres to Curumaní, officially began. This major infrastructure project, overseen by the Autopista del Río Grande concession, represents a significant investment of 3.64 trillion Colombian pesos and is expected to take approximately four years to complete. With plans to enhance road safety and connectivity across Colombia’s northern region, the project includes the construction of new roads, bridges, and intersections. It aims to boost local economies, generate employment, and reduce travel times between key economic hubs and ports on the northern coast.
Major Road Construction to Transform Northern Colombia
The Troncal del Magdalena 2 project is set to revolutionize connectivity across Colombia’s northern departments. The construction involves nine new road variants, six intersections, 43 vehicle bridges, and 40 pedestrian bridges. Additionally, the project plans to improve the existing 116.24 kilometers of single carriageway and add 98.9 kilometers of new double carriageway.
Strategic Focus Areas: The project prioritizes key sectors such as the new carriageway construction between El Taladro and El Tropezón, the variants of La Mata, Pelaya, La Floresta, and El Burro, and the expansion of the second lane between Las Vegas and Curumaní, including the Las Vegas variant. This strategic approach ensures a comprehensive upgrade of the entire route, aiming to improve safety and connectivity.
Boosting Regional Economies and Creating Jobs
42,000 New Jobs Expected: One of the most significant benefits of the project is its potential to create approximately 42,000 jobs, both direct and indirect, during the construction phase. The project emphasizes hiring local labor, prioritizing workers from the 15 municipalities directly impacted by the construction, such as Barrancabermeja, Sabana de Torres, and Aguachica. This initiative aims to stimulate local economies, revitalize small businesses, and support regional communities.
Support for Local Businesses: The concession is committed to sourcing materials and services locally, further promoting economic growth. In the pre-construction phase, the majority of employees were hired from nearby communities, showcasing the project’s dedication to fostering local development.
Enhancing Colombia’s Competitiveness and Connectivity
The Magdalena 2 project will not only provide better road connectivity for the residents of Santander, Norte de Santander, and Cesar but also serve a critical role in linking Colombian ports on the northern coast with key production centers inland. By cutting down travel times and improving road safety, the new corridor is set to enhance Colombia’s competitiveness in international trade and commerce.
Sustainability and Environmental Responsibility
Commitment to Environmental Standards: To minimize environmental impacts, the concession has implemented strict measures for compensation and mitigation, following rigorous planning stages. This includes obtaining necessary licenses and environmental permits. A total of 160 socialization sessions were held across the municipalities affected by the project, ensuring community involvement and transparency.
Programs Focused on Sustainability: In addition to road construction, the project has rolled out multiple sustainability initiatives targeting carbon footprint reduction, recycling, water resource protection, gender equality, and community support. Programs also aim to reduce violence against women and promote literacy, underlining the concession’s broader commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
Community Engagement and Planning Efforts
Prior to the commencement of construction, significant preparatory work was conducted. This included thorough socialization with local communities, securing financial closures for the entire project, and detailed planning efforts to ensure smooth execution.
The project has incorporated programs aimed at promoting social, economic, and environmental sustainability. Measures such as reducing CO2 emissions, recycling practices, and protecting water resources demonstrate a comprehensive approach to community well-being and environmental protection.
Conclusion: A New Era for Northern Colombia’s Infrastructure
The construction of the Troncal del Magdalena 2 marks a crucial step towards improving infrastructure, safety, and economic growth in Colombia’s northern region. By enhancing the road network between Sabana de Torres and Curumaní, the project is expected to create significant socio-economic benefits, including job creation, local business stimulation, and improved regional competitiveness. As construction progresses, the emphasis remains on sustainability, local involvement, and minimal environmental impact, promising a transformative impact on the lives of thousands in the region.
