Ecuador's industries ministry spent US$15mn on the Cementos Chimborazo precast concrete factory in Riobamba, Chimborazo province, which will produce new ties to repair rail networks.

 

The ministry expects the factory to produce 265,000 concrete sleepers, which will last 40 years, as opposed to wooden sleepers which require much more maintenance. The use of concrete sleepers is also more environmentally friendly, according to a ministry release.

 

In a second stage, the factory will change its production line to make other products for public works projects. This stage is expected to require an additional US$4mn.