The collapse of the Villa Carmen bridge in the El Cacao community, Capira district, has caused concern among residents and local authorities, as the area was left with only one vehicular access. The deputy for West Panama, Eduardo Vásquez, reported that he was on a tour of the area when he received the report of the structure's collapse, which was already in a state of deterioration and had usage restrictions. 'While on a tour in the El Cacao district, we received information about the collapse of the Villa Carmen bridge. Knowing his ability to act, we trust there will be a positive response for Capira,' Vásquez expressed. After the bridge collapse in Capira, only one access point for entering and leaving the area remains, located in front of the Maricot station, after the Super Extra supermarket. However, he pointed out that this road also requires improvements, as the increase in vehicle traffic is generating dust that could affect nearby residents. 'It is a road that is also scheduled for improvements, because now with the influx of vehicles in that area, where there is a lot of dust, it can affect the communities,' he added. The deputy reiterated that he expects a quick intervention from the Ministry of Public Works to restore connectivity in this rural area of West Panama, where the collapse of the Villa Carmen bridge has generated mobility difficulties for its inhabitants. This bridge had already undergone some work, and there was an old notice indicating that it could only be used for light loads,' the deputy explained. The structure is part of the road access to the Perequete sector, a route used by residents and producers in the area. MOP analyzes actions after the collapse Upon learning of the situation, the deputy stated that he contacted the Minister of the Ministry of Public Works (MOP), José Luis Andrade, who —according to him— is preparing an official statement on the steps to be taken. 'We communicated with Minister Andrade of the MOP, who informed us that in the coming minutes, a statement would be issued explaining the actions to follow.'
