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Given the improper and repeated use of the Juan Pablo II Bridge by heavy-duty vehicles, the Seremi of the Ministry of Public Works (MOP) of Bio Bio made a strict call to respect the current regulations that prohibit truck transit on said viaduct, a measure established since 2010.
The Juan Pablo II Bridge, which connects Concepción with San Pedro de la Paz, suffered significant structural damage after the earthquake on February 27, 2010. Since then, Exempt Resolution 247 of October 25, 2010, from the MTT, maintained and validated by the MOP, prohibits the circulation of all types of trucks, regardless of their gross vehicle weight and characteristics.
In this regard, MOP Seremi, José Piña, reported that "it is essential to remind the community and the logistics sector that, since 2010, there has been a standing prohibition on truck transit over the Juan Pablo II Bridge, a necessary measure because the passage of heavy loads represents a real risk to the integrity of its infrastructure."
A recent MOP engineering study has determined that the structure requires critical care, with a limited remaining useful life. The passage of high-tonnage trucks generates "intense and improper use" that accelerates the deterioration of the support points, piers, and seismic anchors, increasing the risk of accidents and shortening the bridge's useful life.
With the aim of strengthening the road connectivity of Greater Concepción and safeguarding the safety of thousands of daily users, the Ministry of Public Works (MOP), through the Directorate of Roads, has initiated the conservation contract for the Juan Pablo II Bridge.
This structural intervention, which responds to the accumulated wear and tear after more than 50 years of operation, seeks to extend the useful life of the oldest viaduct over the Bio Bio River.
Seremi Piña stated that "the conservation project has an estimated investment of $9 billion and contemplates a comprehensive intervention that includes structural reinforcement, maintaining transitability conditions, improving road safety aspects of the bridge, as well as the installation of a gantry with surveillance cameras to measure speed and control truck traffic."
The work, which will begin in June 2026, will be carried out during night shifts over a period of 600 days, in coordination with municipalities.
The MOP urged trucks transiting the Juan Pablo II Bridge to use the Industrial Bridge or the Llacolén Bridge for their passage. It is reminded that the Juan Pablo II Bridge is intended only for light vehicles and public transport.
Non-compliance with this regulation entails serious infractions cited to the Local Police Court.
Source: portalportuario
