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BiggerPublic Works closes Las Américas Tunnel as precaution
Santo Domingo.- The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) temporarily closed Las Américas Tunnel to safeguard drivers and pedestrians from risks caused by water accumulation in the infrastructure. The measure seeks to prevent accidents while ensuring public safety.
In coordination with the General Directorate of Traffic Safety and Land Transportation (DIGESETT), authorities have set up alternate routes and detours to maintain mobility and reduce traffic disruptions. The tunnel will reopen once weather conditions permit safe use.
Meanwhile, MOPC crews remain on-site to monitor the situation. The ministry urged drivers to exercise caution, respect traffic signs, and follow the guidance of the authorities.
Better to be safe than sorry. However, this safeguard action speaks of some lingering uncertainty of the ability of the tunnel engineering to safely divert or drain water. The Nov 2023 wall collapse at the entrance of a tunnel on Av 27 during a terrible rainstorm was because poor design. Nine people were killed.