River transport service between Pilar, Paraguay, and Puerto Cano, Argentina, was officially resumed today, Wednesday 11th December 2024, with the reopening of the Pilar – Puerto Cano Ferry, representing an important step forward for communities in both countries.
The Ministry of Public Works and Communications (MOPC) highlighted that this border crossing significantly shortens travel time for people and vehicles, strengthens trade and encourages tourism.
The head of the Merchant Marine Directorate, Patricio Ortega, highlighted the importance of the river service to strengthen the connection between Paraguay and Argentina.
“We manage the necessary authorisations in each country and grant the authorisation certificate to the company Río Paraguay Servicios SA, guaranteeing high safety standards,” he said. He also stressed that this service boosts commercial activities and benefits those who need to travel for health reasons.
For his part, Miguel Meseguer, representative of Río Paraguay Servicios SA, explained that the ferry service operates from Monday to Saturday with two trips in the morning and two in the afternoon.
“From Pilar, departures are at 8, 10, 14 and 16 hours, while on the Argentine side, in Puerto Cano, they are at 9, 11, 15 and 17 hours,” he explained. The boat has the capacity to transport up to 12 vehicles per crossing.
The Pilar – Puerto Cano Ferry saves a lot of time
Users of the service also expressed their satisfaction with the reopening. Stella Maris Ojeda, a frequent user, shared: “It saves us a lot of time. We cross in just 20 minutes, avoiding going around Asunción or Encarnación, which would take us between 6 and 7 hours. We are very happy about this reopening.”
Along the same lines, the administrator of the National Navigation and Ports Administration (ANNP), Federico Botino, highlighted the positive impact of the reopening of the Pilar – Puerto Cano Ferry, noting that it was achieved thanks to a joint effort.
This service benefits the citizens of Pilar and Puerto Cano by facilitating transportation, boosting economic development and strengthening integration between Paraguay and Argentina, consolidating itself as a key link for both nations.
