Colombia: Protest activity causes transport disruptions in Bogota late May 23

Protest activity has caused transport disruptions, including to TransMilenio bus services, in various parts of Bogota as of late May 23. Most participants are reportedly students at Francisco Jose de Caldas District University (Universidad Distrital Francisco Jose de Caldas) and the National University of Colombia (Universidad Nacional de Colombia), and recent student protests have been centered in the vicinities of the universities' campuses.

Bogota Transit authorities have reported that protest activity has caused significant transport disruptions on Avenida NQS at its intersection with Calle 45, effectively closing the route. Additionally, TransMilenio has said that its National University Station (Estacion Universidad Nacional) on Troncal/Avenida NQS has closed. Traffic officials have advised motorists and pedestrians to seek alternative routes to avoid protest-related disruptions.

Authorities will likely deploy a heightened security presence at the sites of any related demonstrations. Further transport disruptions and road closures are possible over the coming hours in areas subject to protest activity. Clashes between protesters and security forces are possible, especially if demonstration participants ignore any orders from authorities to disperse.