The longest suspension bridge built over the Zent River in Matina indigenous territory in Limón Province has been inaugurated.

According to the National Emergency Commission, the bridge project cost more than $1 million, which was covered by that institution's budget. The building project was under the Municipality of Matina.

The 126-meter-long bridge allows faster and safer transit to more than 800 people living in the five indigenous communities located near the river.

Before the locals had to travel, on horseback or walking, long expeditions to the surrounding river. In addition, in case of medical emergencies, there was no access to rescue or emergency organizations such as the Red Cross or the Firefighters department.

 

The bridge has two lanes (one for each direction of traffic) and a pedestrian crossing for the safety of the residents of the indigenous communities of Chumico, Bajo Chirripó, Palmera, Alto Palmera and Xirinach.

Matina bridge is one of more bridge restoration projects announced by the government. This week, construction begins for the restoration works of the bridge over the Reventado River in the San Francisco de Asis District in Cartago Province.

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