Peru: Transportation strike in south and protests in Cusco August 7-8

Event

Inter-regional transportation workers in southern Peru began a 48-hour strike on Tuesday, August 7. The workers plan to hold protests in the city of Cusco during the strike. Approximately 5000 transportation workers from Cusco, Arequipa, Puno, and Moquegua regions, among others, are expected to participate. Security authorities have said they would permit peaceful protest on main roads and in the historic center of Cusco from 08:00 (local time) on August 7. However, the protesters are also expected to attempt to block entrances to Cusco, which could lead to violent clashes with police. Cusco police have stated that transit through the Cusco-Machu Picchu tourism corridor will be guaranteed. A heightened security presence and localized traffic disruptions are expected near demonstrations.

Context

Transportation workers are demanding that the government legalize the use of minivans and other small vehicles in inter-provincial and inter-regional transport.

Advice

Individuals in Cusco and other affected regions are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests and large public gatherings as a precaution, and allow for extra time to reach their destinations. Additionally, Peruvian authorities recommend that tourists experiencing difficulties as a result of the strike visit Tourist Information and Assistance (IPERU) and Foreign Tourism offices located in Alejandro Velasco Astete International Airport (CUZ), Ollantaytambo (Cusco region), and the Historic Center of Cusco for further information and assistance.