Colombia: Public transport workers staging strike in Barranquilla as of Aug. 2

Event

Public transport workers are staging a citywide strike in Barranquilla as of Aug. 2. The purpose of the action is to demand that city officials augment security measures along bus routes. Strike participants initially suspended transport services Aug. 1 to protest the killing of three public bus drivers in late July; they have not immediately said when they would resume normal operations.

Authorities have stated that 15 of the 20 transportation companies that operate in the Barranquilla Metropolitan Area are refusing to work and blocking roads, leading to significant transport disruptions in the region. While the city's Transmetro system has remained in operation, it has periodically halted services due to the ongoing blockades. The lack of available buses has reportedly caused an increase in taxi fares across the city.

Unless resolved, the strike will likely continue to prompt significant disruptions to the public transportation sector over at least the short term.

Advice

Consider booking private transportation if operating in Barranquilla amid the strike. Avoid all protests and roadblocks. Allow additional time to reach your destination, as heavier-than-usual traffic is likely Aug. 2-3.