Progress is being seen in Bolivia on the construction of the important El Sillar highway project. The highway will feature two lanes in either direction and is over 67% complete at present.
The project is being handled by Chinese contractor Sinohydro, which has been paid in excess of US$282.5 million for its work.
The project is challenging due to the geology of the area. The new road will provide a more reliable link that the existing road, which has suffered from landslides causing it to close. The project involves building two tunnels and 28 bridges as well as numerous sections of retaining walls to prevent landslides.
Building the highway will deliver an important national link for Bolivia that will also help transport connections to neighbouring countries,Brazil, Chile and Peru. Most notably the highway will deliver a direct route through to port facilities in its three neighbours, of crucial importance for landlocked Bolivia.
