The state of the roads has been a cause of constant concern for the inhabitants of the Cesar region, who often face difficulties navigating deteriorated, poorly maintained and, in many cases, completely impassable roads. (Read in WITHlivestock context: Lack of tertiary routes and its effect on food security)
According to Eudes Antonio Garzón, a zootechnical veterinary doctor and professional rooted in the Cesar region, the critical situation of tertiary roads is a recurring issue among farmers, ranchers and local residents.
Garzón relates that, in some areas, Local mayors have partially intervened on the roads, although with limited resources and sometimes insufficient to address the needs long-term maintenance and repair.
Furthermore, the professional highlights the ‘voluntary’ contribution of ranchers and farmers to fix the roads, known as ‘vaca’, (which) reflects the lack of public investment adequate in rural infrastructure.
During the summer season, when weather conditions are more favorable, a joint effort is observed on the part of the municipal administrationthe local community and even some private sector companies to improve tertiary roads.
This temporary collaboration often results in superficial repairs and patches that do not address the structural problems of the tracks. However, When the rainy season arrives, the fragility of these solutions becomes evident, as roads again suffer significant damage.leaving communities once again isolated, with difficulties accessing basic services and markets.
According to Garzón, the cycle of repair and deterioration is exacerbated by the political nature of the management of tertiary roads. With each change in municipal administration, road arrangements become a priority, often used as a measure of the effectiveness and commitment of incoming and outgoing mayors.
However, These short-term interventions rarely translate into lasting improvements, as ongoing maintenance needs and a lack of long-term planning persist.
The rural communities of Cesar, whose subsistence depends largely on the ability to access markets and services, face a precarious situation due to the state of the tertiary roads. The lack of adequate road infrastructure not only makes it difficult to transport agricultural and livestock products, but also limits access to education services.health and other development opportunities.
To address these challenges effectively, Garzón states that A comprehensive and sustainable response is required that involves both government authorities and local communities. This includes increased public investment in rural road infrastructure, the implementation of a long-term maintenance program and the promotion of community participation in project planning and execution. (Read in WITHlivestock context: Recovering 1,000 kilometers of tertiary roads, Antioquia’s commitment)
Which roads are most affected
Garzón points out that the producers have stated Damage to the ‘Loma Linda’ road, on the La Luna path. This road has been in very bad condition for a long time. and tends to get worse with the arrival of the rains.
The same happens with the Siberian trail to the Guaimaral trail, which is lost in the mountains and gaps. The ranchers have told Garzón that “the Puerto Lajas path has more holes than a grater.”
The professional maintains that “there are few municipalities that have more than 90% of their road network intervened. That should be a reading that the community of each municipality has at hand to measure the effectiveness of the execution of works on road issues.”
