Project Progress and Key Features
The Secretaría de Infraestructura, Comunicaciones y Transportes (SICT) is making significant strides in constructing the Rizo de Oro Bridge in Chiapas, Mexico. This groundbreaking project boasts a unique “mixed arch” design, setting it apart as a national reference in engineering.
- The installation of the steel structure, the heart of the bridge, is currently underway.
- The project has surpassed an 80% physical progress milestone.
- It will benefit approximately 300,000 residents from various communities in southern Chiapas.
Janette Cosmes Vásquez, the general director of SICT Chiapas, announced that the steel structure, a crucial component of this monumental task, is being installed. She emphasized that the Rizo de Oro arch will be one-of-a-kind in Mexico, with no similar bridge existing.
Design and Impact
The bridge’s design incorporates a lower concrete arch supporting the vehicular roadway, while its steel structure rises from the same point. This hybrid concept not only ensures stability but also lends a distinct architectural character, showcasing Mexican engineering prowess.
This project, spearheaded by Jesús Antonio Esteva Medina, the SICT secretary, involves collaboration between SICT, specialized companies, and numerous individuals contributing to the well-being of Chiapas families.
Historically, the bridge addresses the communication needs of communities isolated since the construction of La Angostura Dam. Alongside the La Concordia Bridge, inaugurated in August 2024, Rizo de Oro will save over an hour on travel and ensure safe transit conditions across the reservoir, previously navigated via makeshift boats or rafts.
“The social impact will be profound, transforming connectivity between the border with Guatemala and Tuxtla Gutiérrez,” stated Cosmes Vásquez.
Beneficiaries and Employment
Directly benefiting around 300,000 inhabitants, particularly those from Frontera Comalapa and the fraillesca region (comprising municipalities like Luis Ángel Vidal, Montecristo de Guerrero, Ángel Albino Corzo, La Concordia, Villa Corzo, Villaflores, and El Parral), the bridge project has created approximately 5,000 jobs.
Environmental Compliance
The project adheres strictly to environmental regulations. Diego Sotelo León, the Medio Ambiente, Seguridad y Salud project head from Coconal, highlighted that environmental management is carried out rigorously due to the project’s proximity to a water body requiring protection.
Adherence to conditions set by the Secretaría del Medio Ambiente y Recursos Naturales (Semarnat) and labor safety protocols supervised by the Secretaría del Trabajo y Previsión Social ensures a responsible, secure, and sustainable construction process.
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the unique feature of the Rizo de Oro Bridge? The bridge features a “mixed arch” design, combining a lower concrete arch for the roadway and an upper steel structure, making it one-of-a-kind in Mexico.
- How will this bridge impact the local communities? The Rizo de Oro Bridge will significantly improve connectivity, save travel time, and ensure safer transit conditions for approximately 300,000 residents in southern Chiapas.
- What is the current progress of the project? The project has surpassed an 80% physical progress milestone, with the installation of the steel structure underway.
- How many jobs has this project generated? The Rizo de Oro Bridge project has created around 5,000 jobs, both direct and indirect.
- How is the project ensuring environmental compliance? The project adheres to strict environmental management and labor safety protocols, ensuring a responsible and sustainable construction process.
