Defensoría calling for immediate closure of National Roads Authority (CONAVI)

October 30^th, 2013 (InsideCostaRica.com) In its most recent audit of the Ministry of Public Works and Transport (MOPT), the Public Ombudsman’s Office, known locally as the Defensoría de los Habitantes, is recommending the immediate closure of the National Roads Authority (Conavi).

According to the report, lack of investment, poor execution and bureaucracy at Conavi are responsible for the vast majority of the 1,330 bridges in the country being in “deplorable” conditions.

According to the report, Conavi has failed in its administrative function to manage resources and implement infrastructure works to meet the country’s needs.

“By the clear deterioration in the national road network and bridges it can be concluded that Conavi is not able to fulfill its functions in terms of maintenance and upkeep, nor has it achieved acceptable performance in managing new works,” the report says.

“[…] Irregularities and deficiencies […] coupled with the country’s failing road infrastructure, make it clear the need to analyze the appropriateness of the current management model,” the report continues.