A new mixed-use viaduct has been opened in the district of Cambyretá, Department of Itapúa, in Southern Paraguay. The bridge is an element of the Yacyretá Binational Entity’s (EBY) ongoing railway replacement project. The infrastructure enables roadway access to connect the neighbourhoods of Espíritu Santo, San Juan, and San Rafael in the city of Encarnación. The development improves mobility to the city centre and streamlines the flow of traffic and commerce.
The project is a component of a broader 7 kilometres railway replacement plan. The route extends from the head of the San Roque González de Santa Cruz International Bridge to the crossing with Route PY06. Additionally, the road passes through neighbourhoods in Encarnación and Cambyretá. Authorities said the initiative aims to modernise infrastructure, reduce travel times, and strengthen local economic activity.
First phase completed
Officials highlighted that the opening of the mixed-use viaduct marks the completion of the first stage of the railway replacement project. Work on the railway crossing itself continues. Following the inauguration, construction efforts will focus on additional bridges and grade separations in other areas of Cambyretá to normalise traffic flow along sections affected by the project.
The opening ceremony was attended by the Paraguayan executive director of EBY, Luis Benítez, Cambyretá District Mayor Jaime Hinterleitner, local authorities, and residents of the community.
Modern design combines road and rail infrastructure
The structure stands out for its mixed use, integrated design. In addition to the road traffic on the surface of the bridge, it features a railway tunnel beneath Adolfo Ariste Street, which was modified over a total length of 141 metres. The viaduct spans 16.70 metres and crosses the roadway transversely.
Construction work included earthmoving, retaining walls, drainage systems, concrete structures, and paving. Also prioritised were multiple safety features, such as guardrails, Jersey barriers, and regulatory signage.
According to EBY, the mixed-use crossing is expected to significantly improve transportation between neighbourhoods while supporting commercial activity through faster and safer transit.
Residents and authorities welcome the project
Community leaders described the new mixed-use viaduct as a major transformation for the district. Arnaldo Cañete, president of the neighbourhoods commission, said residents were grateful for the investment. “From being a neighbourhoods forgotten by previous administrations of the Yacyretá Binational Entity, today we have become one of those with the most modern road infrastructure. It is a radical change and gives us a lot of hope,” he states.
Luis Benítez added that the viaduct is part of a comprehensive plan for the region’s future railway network. “We personally oversaw the work to expedite it without compromising the quality that characterises us. This infrastructure is part of the comprehensive project for the region’s new railway line. We are pleased to open this section and move towards the complete completion of the railway.”
Broader push for railway modernisation in Asunción
Further development of the railway replacement project is ongoing. Other transportation improvement initiatives include the proposal for a commuter rail in Asunción. The plan envisions a fully electric system designed to carry around 40,000 passengers daily and improve urban mobility across the capital. Recently re-evaluated, the estimated costs range between US$35 million and US$80 million per kilometre, and are structured under a public-private partnership model with international participation.
The proposed railway has nine stops, beginning in the Historic Centre of Asunción at Plaza Uruguaya and terminating at Parque Guasú. Officials say the project advances under a cooperative framework involving the Paraguayan government and international partners. Congressional review is underway as the legal framework is finalised.
Further infrastructure reinforcements in San Pablo
In addition to the development of the multi-use viaduct and planned railway replacement project, plans for roadway improvements are underway. The project is at 58% completion as of 19 May 2026. The plan aims to address infrastructure challenges across the country’s 17 departments, including San Pablo. Reinforcing and repaving 1,000 km of road with asphalt, the plan is designed to improve safety, accessibility, and traffic flow.
All together, these initiatives reflect a broader national effort to modernise Paraguay’s transportation infrastructure frameworks. The rail and road investment projects are aimed at improving long-term connectivity, reducing travel times, and supporting regional development across urban and rural areas.
