Yacyretá Dam Border Crossing to Fully Reopen on November 13, 2023

The Yacyretá dam crossing between Ituzaingó (Argentina) and Ayolas (Paraguay) is scheduled to fully reopen on November 13, 2023, after being partially reopened in 2022. Authorities believe this reopening will stimulate economic growth through enhanced tourism and commerce. Local leaders have expressed hopes for positive impacts on both communities following the extended closure due to COVID-19 restrictions.

Authorities from Argentina and Paraguay are preparing to fully reopen the border crossing at the Yacyretá dam between Ituzaingó (Corrientes, Argentina) and Ayolas (Paraguay) to all vehicle types. This decision, announced recently, is anticipated to significantly benefit the local economies of both regions through increased tourism and trade. The reopening ceremony is scheduled for November 13. Ituzaingó Mayor Juan Pablo Valdés and Mariano Ferreiros, the Federal Cabinet Chief Envoy, inspected the site along with other officials to finalize preparations for this event. The crossing was established in August 2019 but was subsequently closed in July 2020 due to COVID-19 restrictions. Although a partial reopening took place in October 2022, allowing only limited public transport, the upcoming full reopening promises to enhance traffic flow and economic activity. Mayor Valdés emphasized the agreement reached after extensive negotiations, noting that few signatures remain to make the reopening official. Valdés remarked, “There were many negotiations and claims. With the new national authorities, we were finally listened to and understood,” expressing hope for the positive effects of this crossing reactivation on both economies. Local residents have eagerly awaited this development, especially in Ayolas, where social leader Arnyldo Bernal stated, “If it does materialize, and hopefully it will, it will be a great advantage for health, for culture, and for those people who travel for different reasons.” He called for the realization of this reopening, which is the last border crossing still closed since the pandemic restrictions were imposed.

The Yacyretá dam crossing represents a vital link between Argentina and Paraguay, facilitating not only transport but also economic exchange between the two nations. Originally opened to improve accessibility and commerce, the crossing was halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic, significantly impacting businesses reliant on cross-border transactions. The area has seen ongoing infrastructure developments, particularly around the Yacyretá project, which has further complicated matters of reopening. Thus, the planned full reopening coming up is viewed as a crucial step towards economic recovery for both localities.

The forthcoming reopening of the Yacyretá dam crossing is set for November 13, 2023, marking a significant event for both Argentina and Paraguay. After enduring several closures due to pandemic restrictions and ongoing infrastructure works, this full reopening is expected to revitalize local economies through increased trade and tourism. Local leaders express optimism regarding its potential benefits, acknowledging the persistent efforts that led to this decision.

Original Source: en.mercopress.com