As Asunción enters the festive season, road safety becomes a central concern while Paraguay’s capital prepares for its busiest weeks of the year. End-of-the-year celebrations bring heavier traffic, tighter schedules, and a notable spike in road incidents. In response, the Municipal Traffic Police (PMT) has reinforced its annual order and control plan, aiming to curb the rise in accidents and maintain safer mobility across Asunción.
Technology and coordination to improve mobility
The PMT is working with the Advanced Traffic Management System (ATMS) to adjust the timing of recently installed intelligent traffic lights. Maidana explained that field reports from traffic agents help calibrate the system, gradually improving vehicle flow across key access points.
PMT Director Marcos Maidana noted that over 600,000 vehicles and 1.3 million people enter Asunción every day. This volume demands close coordination between the PMT and the Directorate of Traffic and Transport, especially during high-pressure months.
Road safety measures increase ahead of the holiday surge
Maidana confirmed that officers are now stationed at 37 strategic intersections leading in and out of the capital. The operation runs Monday to Friday, from 06:30 to 08:30 and from 16:00 to 18:00, reinforcing peak-hour coverage.
The director reminded citizens of the clear guidelines for road safety. Speed limits remain at 60 km/h on avenues, 50 km/h on general streets, 40 km/h for heavy vehicles, 30 km/h on cobblestone roads, 20 km/h in school zones, and 10 km/h when entering intersections without priority. Failing to comply is considered a serious offence, carrying a fine equivalent to ten daily wages (approximately Gs. 1,115,020 or US$140).
Motorcyclists, the most vulnerable group
Road safety concerns extend beyond congestion. Maidana highlighted that motorcyclists, particularly delivery workers, are the most frequent victims of crashes. Alcohol consumption and reckless behaviour contribute heavily to these incidents. Recently, the PMT operated on avenues such as Pettirossi, República Francesa, and Artigas. “These measures may seem unpopular. But we prefer to be unpopular and save lives,” said Maidana.
Every year, Paraguay’s public holidays create a unique dynamic in the capital. Festive activities, reunions, and long-distance travel all coincide, making road safety a priority for authorities. To stay informed about upcoming measures and updates, citizens can follow the PMT on Facebook.
