Sinkhole on Route 27 Forces Traffic Diversions Toward the Pacific Coast

Heavy rainfall over the past few hours caused a major sinkhole on National Route 27, specifically near Orotina, leading to a temporary road closure and forcing authorities to implement alternative routes to maintain traffic flow between the Central Valley and the Pacific coast.

According to information provided by the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), the damage occurred at kilometer 56 after the apparent collapse of a drainage culvert caused by water accumulation and intense rainfall in the area.

Authorities Activate Alternative Routes

Following the complete closure of traffic in the affected area, the MOPT announced that heavy vehicles must use National Route 1 through Cambronero as an alternative route.

For light vehicles, authorities recommended using National Route 757, commonly known as the old road to Orotina, passing through the Pozón roundabout before reconnecting with Route 27.

Traffic Police officers remain deployed at several strategic points to regulate circulation and reduce congestion caused by the closure.

Cambronero Roadworks Temporarily Suspended

As part of contingency measures, the National Road Council (CONAVI) confirmed the temporary suspension of nighttime roadworks scheduled in Cambronero.

The decision aims to keep National Route 1 fully operational in order to absorb the increase in heavy traffic resulting from the closure of Route 27.

Authorities stated that the current priority is to guarantee connectivity between San José and the Pacific region while technical assessments continue in the affected zone.

Globalvía Evaluates Structural Damage

Engineers from Globalvía, the concessionaire operating Route 27, are currently conducting technical inspections to determine the extent of the damage and define the necessary repairs to restore traffic as quickly as possible.

According to preliminary reports, the sinkhole may have been caused by a failure in the drainage system following a significant water surge generated by heavy rainfall.

The MOPT also reminded the public that, as this is a concession-operated highway, repair costs must be covered by the concessionaire company.

Temporary Access Could Be Restored in the Coming Days

MOPT authorities indicated that work is underway to enable a temporary lane for light vehicles while repair operations continue.

In addition, officials are considering the installation of a provisional modular structure to partially restore traffic in both directions and reduce the impact on passenger and freight transportation.

Meanwhile, authorities are urging drivers to stay informed exclusively through official communication channels and to follow all Traffic Police instructions.