Peru: Protests continue to disrupt rail services in Cusco Department as of Dec. 15

Event

Rail service disruptions are likely to persist between the municipality of Machupicchu, also known as Aguas Calientes, and the city of Cusco through at least late-December, as protesters continue to block the railroad connecting the two areas. Officials suspended rail services between the two regions indefinitely beginning Dec. 14 after demonstrations broke out in Machupicchu Dec. 10, during which protesters obstructed the tracks repeatedly.

The suspension of rail transport has effectively isolated Machupicchu and other communities along the railroad as they do not have road connections. Authorities have also closed the ruins of Machu Picchu, a popular tourist destination, in response to the demonstrations. The site will likely remain closed until rail transport normalizes. Rail authorities said they would restart services once the situation stabilizes; however, demonstrators plan to maintain the protests indefinitely.

Security forces are likely to deploy to monitor the demonstrations. Clashes between the police and protesters remain possible, especially if authorities move to disperse any gatherings.

Context

The demonstrators are upset with the fares charged by the railroad to locals, as well as what they describe as an insufficient number of trains transporting locals, rather than tourists.

Advice

Avoid all protests as a precaution. If violence breaks out, immediately leave the area or seek shelter in a non-governmental building. Plan for continued rail disruptions throughout Cusco Department.