Colombia is working on an alternative to the Panama Canal

The Colombian government is already moving forward with an ambitious train project Turbo-Cupica to connect the Atlantic and Pacific oceans, with the aim of offering a competitive alternative to the currently congested Panama Canal.

According to the Transport Infrastructure Planning Unit (Inquiry) reports revealed by Cambio magazine, this project is in the pre-feasibility stage, which marks a firm step towards its realization.

This plan not only seeks to improve connectivity and efficiency in freight and passenger transport, but also to economically reactivate the Choco Darién region.

The magazine adds that the initiative aims to build a two-track railway that would cover 198.6 kilometers, with 11.12 kilometers of tunnels and 132.3 kilometers of viaducts, which would be designed for the passage of 16 trains a day.

It also includes the development of two specialized ports in operation of sea containersone in Cupica Bay and the other in Urabá Bay (Puerto Antioquia).

The latter is making great progress in implementation and would be ready to start operating in 2025.

According to the report, this strategic project promotes and encourages the growth of the department of Chocó and, in addition, promotes the development of sustainable infrastructure that reduces impacts on natural capital, respects strategic ecosystems and biodiversity.

The report also points out that the development of the interoceanic railway channel, port in Chocoan Darién and Cupica are opportunities to relieve bottlenecks on global maritime trade routes.

The first preliminary feasibility studies would be ready before the end of 2024.

The most significant challenge remains feasibility, which will determine the final plans for the construction of the train, which is already scheduled to be operational by 2050.