Free Flow System on Ruta del Itata from September 17

A new stage will begin for the Ruta del Itata with the implementation of the Free Flow toll collection system, a technology that allows vehicles to be registered as they pass without having to stop at a toll plaza.

The implementation of this mechanism, starting at midnight on Thursday, September 17, represents an advancement in the transformation of one of the main accesses to Greater Concepción, incorporating a solution in line with current mobility needs and the growth of vehicular traffic in the area.

The presidential delegate of Bio Bio, Julio Anativia, said that "the start of the free flow system fortunately coincides with the beginning of the national holidays. A period where it is estimated that 70,000 vehicles will travel on this route, and therefore, it is also an opportunity to generate better safety conditions for traffic on the route."

The regional ministerial secretary (seremi) of Public Works of Bio Bio, José Piña, highlighted that "the implementation of Free Flow changes the face of the entrance to Greater Concepción. We are incorporating modern technology and infrastructure so that people can move more quickly and with a better experience on this important access to our region."

The system allows vehicles to continue their journey through the toll point, while their passage is registered using technology enabled for this purpose. This eliminates stops associated with traditional payment and promotes continuous traffic flow, which is especially relevant during periods of high demand.

At the Agua Amarilla toll, manual collection is maintained at the main plaza, and Multi Lane Free Flow is incorporated through a gantry, in both directions, with two lanes per direction. At the side plazas, Stop & Go and manual collection are maintained.

For the MOP (Ministry of Public Works), this change constitutes a concrete step in the modernization of Bio Bio's road infrastructure and in the incorporation of technological solutions that better respond to the needs of those who use the region's routes daily.

"This is an infrastructure used by thousands of people and plays a strategic role in the connectivity of the territory. Therefore, moving towards more modern toll collection systems is also moving towards better mobility," added Piña.

The Ruta del Itata connects Greater Concepción with different territories in the northern part of the region and concentrates significant vehicular traffic throughout the year, especially during periods of high mobility.

The presidential delegate added that "the implementation of this toll collection system will facilitate traffic, bring improvements in safety conditions, both for those who travel and for those who work at these tolls. It should be remembered that traffic jams often occurred due to stops, which undoubtedly created unsafe situations for those working."

With the implementation of Free Flow, this access incorporates a toll collection system in line with new technological standards, contributing to more expedited circulation and a more efficient travel experience for its users.

The Ministry of Public Works called on drivers to inform themselves about the operation of the new mechanism, respect the signage, and use the official channels available to learn about payment methods and resolve their doubts.