05 Sep 2024 | 03:29 PM UTC
Colombia: Truck drivers likely to continue protests, roadblocks, and strike across several departments through early September /update 2
Truck drivers likely to maintain protests, roadblocks, and strike across Colombia through early September. Significant disruptions likely.
Significant transport and business disruptions are likely to continue through at least early September, as cargo truck drivers maintain protests, roadblocks, and a strike across several departments of Colombia to denounce diesel prices. Reports indicate the protest actions are creating shortages in some basic products, especially in the departments of Cundinamarca, Santander, Norte de Santander, Meta, and Boyaca, plus significantly affecting sales nationwide.
Among the most affected areas is the capital Bogota, where dozens of roads have been blocked, including Avenida Boyaca, Via al Llano, Via Bogota-La Vega, Via Choachi, Avenida Bosa, Avenida Caracas, and Autopista Norte. The Transmilenio bus service has been significantly affected, as multiple buses are not able to complete their normal routes, and some of their stations have been blocked.
The protests are also significantly affecting ground transport in other major cities, with dozens of roadblocks in and around Cali, Medellin, and Barranquilla. Among some of the main roads that remain blocked as of Sept. 5, are the Medellin-Bogota and the Medellin-Caldas highways, as well as the main entrances to the city of Cali. Bus terminals have also suspended most inter-city operations.
Truckers have also blocked the main roads connecting to the Palonegro International Airport (BGA), outside of Bucaramanga, and flight disruptions are likely, as many airport and airline workers have been unable to arrive. Reports indicate there are also roadblocks leading up to Alfonso Bonilla Aragon International Airport (CLO), outside of Cali, and multiple travelers have had to walk to the terminal. Protesters are also attempting to block roads around the Jose Maria Cordova International Airport (MDE) in Rionegro, outside of Medellin. Additional roadblocks near airports are possible in the coming days.
Protests may continue over the coming days across Colombia and cause significant supply-chain disruptions. Police are likely to deploy to any demonstrations, and clashes cannot be ruled out, especially if authorities attempt to forcibly disperse protesters and reopen roads. Heightened security near key roads and government offices is likely.
Avoid protests and roadblocks. Plan for delays and allow additional time to reach your destination if operating in affected areas. Heed instructions from authorities.
Government and truckers' representatives have been meeting in early September but have not been able to reach an agreement to end the strike and demonstrations. Truckers continue to protest the diesel price increase, while government officials consider it necessary but are open to divide it further over several months. President Gustavo Petro has been critical of the protests, and has called on supporters to demonstrate in favor of his administration in the coming days.
