Posted on November 9, 2022
The Colombian government is analyzing two options to finalize the US$480mn project to improve the Magdalena River’s navigability.
“We are evaluating whether it is a public work or if we return to a public-private partnership. Today we’re leaning more towards a public work to carry out the civil works that are required, to dredge the river and the channel,” deputy infrastructure minister Constanza García told a regional infrastructure meeting.
The official added that in the 2023 budget, 183bn pesos (US$37mn) are allocated for dredging, of which 164bn pesos will be for the navigability of the Mompós branch.
García said the government will continue to invest to keep what is Colombia’s principal river navigable, especially the 23km access channel, and that additional resources are also planned if a dredger is purchased.
She added that the commitment of the Gustavo Petro government to the Magdalena River is solid given what it means for the country’s competitiveness and productivity. The 1,500km river is a major route for cargo.
