The Public Works Ministry has repaired the two bridges that suffered damages following the flooding caused by Tropical Storm Jeanne in the eastern region of the country last week. The government removed the debris caused by the intense rainfall that came when the storm remained stationary over the area for several hours on Thursday, 16 September. The repairs were vital to allow for the circulation of vehicles to deliver fuel and food items, as well as other forms of relief to Miches. The road also opens the possibility of transporting these items further on to Higuey and the touristic areas of Bavaro and Punta Cana that were isolated by the destroyed roadways. The repairs now permit drivers to continue on to El Seibo, then to Hato Mayor and San Pedro de Macoris and to Santo Domingo. Another option is to connect via Miches with Sabana de la Mar and then Hato Mayor to San Pedro de Macoris.
The Listin Diario reports that the stretch that had been opened between El Seibo and Sabana del Cuey is still open, although traffic is slow and there are long lines to make the crossing.
Now there are two land crossings to Higuey, a considerable improvement over the area that was completely inaccessible for a week following Jeanne.
Meanwhile, Lisette Gil of the Association of Hotels of La Romana-Bayahibe urged that the government seek the help of the United States to install one of the bridges used by the US Army to replace the Chavon bridge crossing and allow vehicular traffic right away.
At present, El Caribe reports that most supplies to the Bayahibe area are being transported by boat across the river.