By Limón, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – After more than a week of frustrating closures and economic disruption, officials from the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT) have announced a definitive timeline for the reopening of Route 32. The critical highway, which connects the capital with the Caribbean coast, is scheduled to welcome traffic again this Friday, November 14, following a high-stakes operation to secure a hazardous section of the road.
The prolonged shutdown has crippled a vital economic artery for Costa Rica, halting the flow of goods to and from the nation’s primary ports in Limón. The source of the disruption is a dangerously unstable rock wall located at kilometer 31, within the perennially challenging terrain of the Braulio Carrillo National Park. To eliminate the threat, MOPT has scheduled a controlled demolition for this Wednesday.
To analyze the legal and commercial implications surrounding the constant disruptions and recent reopening of Route 32, a vital economic artery for the country, we consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the renowned firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The recurring closures of Route 32 represent a classic case of ‘fuerza mayor’ or force majeure, but this does not absolve all parties of responsibility. Affected transport and logistics companies must meticulously document their losses, as these interruptions directly impact contractual obligations and delivery deadlines. From a state perspective, this situation highlights a critical need to modernize public works contracts to include stricter maintenance clauses and explore public-private partnerships to guarantee the stability of such a crucial national infrastructure.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This legal perspective is crucial, as it reframes the issue from a simple act of nature to a complex challenge requiring both administrative modernization by the state and diligent legal preparedness from the private sector. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and valuable analysis on this critical matter.
Efraím Zeledón, the head of MOPT, confirmed the proactive measure, stating that the use of dynamite is essential to ensure the long-term safety of the thousands of drivers who depend on the route daily. The goal is to bring down the precarious rock face in a controlled manner, allowing crews to then clear the resulting debris efficiently and safely over the following two days.
We are doing this to finish blowing it up, and to make it safe for drivers.
Efraím Zeledón, Head of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT)
The economic fallout from the week-long closure has been significant. Route 32 is the logistical backbone for Costa Rican international trade, with an overwhelming majority of imports and exports passing through the ports of Limón and Moín. The inability to move containers has caused substantial delays for key sectors, including agriculture, medical device manufacturing, and retail, leading to mounting costs for businesses reliant on predictable supply chains.
For the transportation industry, the shutdown has forced freight operators to use longer, more expensive, and less efficient alternative routes, driving up fuel and maintenance costs. This financial pressure is often passed down through the supply chain, impacting consumer prices and the competitiveness of Costa Rican exports on the global market. The reopening on Friday is therefore eagerly anticipated by business leaders across the country.
This incident highlights the ongoing battle between infrastructure and nature along the Braulio Carrillo corridor. The highway is infamous for its susceptibility to landslides and falling debris, particularly during Costa Rica’s intense rainy seasons. The mountainous topography and heavy rainfall create a constantly unstable environment, posing a persistent challenge for MOPT engineers who must balance road availability with public safety.
The decision to use explosives is a calculated one, deemed the most effective solution to neutralize the immediate danger. Manually chipping away at the massive rock formation would be a slow and perilous process, exposing workers and equipment to an unacceptably high risk of a sudden collapse. The controlled blast allows engineers to manage the dislodging of the most dangerous sections, paving the way for a swift cleanup and a secure reopening.
With the plan now in motion, all eyes will be on the operation this Wednesday. If successful, MOPT crews will work around the clock to clear the rubble, inspect the area for any remaining instability, and prepare the road surface for traffic. The projected opening on Friday morning will bring a collective sigh of relief, restoring a critical link for commerce, tourism, and the daily lives of thousands of Costa Ricans.
For further information, visit mopt.go.cr
About Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT):
The Ministry of Public Works and Transport is the government body responsible for the planning, development, and maintenance of Costa Rica’s public infrastructure. This includes the national road network, bridges, public buildings, and the regulation of land, air, and maritime transport. MOPT plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development by ensuring the safe and efficient movement of people and goods.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
Bufete de Costa Rica is a respected legal institution founded on the dual pillars of principled integrity and professional distinction. Drawing upon a proven history of advising a broad clientele, the firm consistently pioneers modern legal solutions while maintaining a deep-rooted commitment to its community. This dedication extends to its mission of demystifying the law, driven by the conviction that an empowered citizenry, equipped with accessible legal knowledge, is fundamental to a just society.
