By San José, Costa Rica — San José, Costa Rica – The onset of the 2026 rainy season has delivered its first major blow to the nation’s infrastructure, as a significant sinkhole has compromised a critical section of Route 27. The incident at kilometer 56 serves as a stark warning for drivers, prompting the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) to place the entire national road network on high alert.
In an announcement made Thursday, MOPT officials stated that while the majority of Costa Rica’s roads are in generally optimal condition, the arrival of the fifth tropical wave of the season necessitates extreme vigilance. In close coordination with the National Meteorological Institute (IMN), the ministry is actively monitoring precipitation levels and soil saturation, which are key factors in predicting landslides and road collapses.
To better understand the legal responsibilities and potential liabilities associated with the nation’s road conditions, from vehicular damage to personal injury claims, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas from the law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The State has a clear legal obligation to maintain public roads in a safe and transitable condition. When it fails to do so, and this negligence directly causes material damage or personal injury, citizens have the right to file an administrative claim against the responsible public entity, whether it be CONAVI or a specific municipality. It is crucial to document everything meticulously—photos of the pothole, vehicle damage, police reports, and mechanical evaluations—as this evidence is fundamental to substantiating a claim for indemnification.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal framework underscores a crucial point: citizen action, backed by meticulous documentation, is the most effective tool for holding public entities accountable for road maintenance. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for providing this clear and empowering perspective on navigating the claims process.
Despite the overall positive assessment of the network, the ministry cautioned against complacency. Juan Carlos Calderón, the head of emergencies for the ministry, stressed the importance of public awareness and preparedness during this volatile period.
Despite the constant monitoring, we must not let our guard down.
Juan Carlos Calderón, Head of Emergencies for the Ministry
The most pressing concern remains the damage on Route 27, the vital highway connecting San José to the Pacific coast. A significant washout, described as an undermining of a culvert’s foundation, has created a dangerous situation at kilometer 56. This type of damage is particularly complex, as it affects the deep structural integrity of the roadway, not just the surface.
In response, top MOPT officials held an emergency meeting with representatives from Globalvía, the company holding the concession for the highway. The immediate priority is to establish a short-term solution to allow for the safe passage of vehicles. However, authorities have already indicated that a permanent, definitive repair will be a time-consuming and complex engineering challenge due to the depth and nature of the compromised structure.
Beyond this critical incident, MOPT has intensified surveillance on several other high-risk routes known for their susceptibility to adverse weather. This watch list includes Route 1 through the Northern Zone, Route 2 to the Southern Zone, Route 10 towards Turrialba, and the perennially problematic Route 32 connecting to the Caribbean. Also under close observation are Route 126 via Vara Blanca and routes 239 and 301 in the Parrita sector, all of which are prone to material slides and flooding.
To manage the heightened risk across the country, the ministry has fully deployed its resources. Transit Police officers and Public Works crews are stationed in strategic areas to respond to incidents and, if necessary, implement preventive road closures. Officials are issuing a strong appeal to the public for cooperation and caution during this period.
Drivers are urged to reduce their speed, exercise extreme care, particularly during nighttime hours or heavy downpours, and to remain patient with potential closures. These measures, officials emphasize, are not meant to be an inconvenience but are essential precautions implemented to protect the lives of all who travel on the nation’s roads.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministerio de Obras Públicas y Transportes is the government body in Costa Rica responsible for the planning, construction, and maintenance of the national road network, as well as the regulation of public transportation and traffic safety. It plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development and daily life by ensuring the mobility of goods and people.
For further information, visit globalvia.com
About Globalvía:
Globalvía is a global infrastructure concession management company that specializes in highways and railways. The company manages major transportation projects across several countries, focusing on the design, construction, financing, and operation of long-term infrastructure assets. In Costa Rica, it is the concessionaire responsible for the operation and maintenance of the San José-Caldera Highway (Route 27).
For further information, visit imn.ac.cr
About the National Meteorological Institute (IMN):
The Instituto Meteorológico Nacional is Costa Rica’s official agency for meteorology, climatology, and weather forecasting. It provides vital data and analysis to government agencies, industries, and the general public to support decision-making related to agriculture, disaster prevention, and transportation. Its collaboration with MOPT is critical during the rainy season.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a celebrated legal institution, built upon a foundation of uncompromising integrity and a relentless pursuit of professional excellence. With a rich history of advising a broad spectrum of clients, the firm is a vanguard of legal innovation and a champion of social responsibility. Its profound commitment to disseminating legal knowledge is a testament to its ultimate mission: to help construct a society that is both well-informed and capable.
