21 Oct 2019 | 10:17 AM UTC
Chile: Nationwide protest scheduled for October 21 /update 6
Groups call for nationwide protest on October 21; heightened security presence, flight and transportation disruptions expected over coming days
Event
Several groups have called for additional protests to take place nationwide on Monday, October 21. A nationwide general protest has been called by Central Unitaria de Trabajadores (CUT) and the Coordinadora NO + AFP, among others. Large crowds and transportation disruptions are to be expected across urban centers, especially in Santiago.
Disruptions at Santiago International Airport (SCL) have been reported, with many delays, as well as LATAM and Sky Airline announcing cancellations through Monday. Further flight delays, as well as other transportation and business disruptions are to be expected over the next several hours and days.
At least 240 people were reportedly arrested in the early hours of Sunday, October 20, for violating the military curfew imposed on the evening of Saturday, October 19, from 22:00 to 07:00 on Sunday. Another curfew was implemented in Santiago, Valparaiso, Rancagua, Coquimbo, and La Serena from Sunday through Monday, from 20:00 on Sunday through 06:00 on Monday. Concepción had its curfew from 22:00 on Sunday through 06:00 on Monday. A state of emergency remains in effect in Santiago amid violent protests that have left at least eight people dead since Saturday, October 19. The Metro in Santiago has announced that it will only operate the L1 line between Pajaritos and Los Dominicos from 07:00 to 20:00 on Monday.
A heightened security presence and disruptions to transportation and business are to be expected in the coming hours and days across Santiago. Further protests are likely - particularly in and around the capital. Clashes between security forces and protesters cannot be ruled out.
Context
On October 6, the Chilean government announced an increase in metro and bus fares. Students subsequently began jumping over metro turnstiles to protest the fare hikes, presaging mass demonstrations in the capital over the perceived high cost of living.
Advice
Individuals in Santiago or individuals traveling via SCL are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, confirm flight reservations, budget extra time to reach their destinations, prepare for disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to any instructions issued by the local authorities.
