Tourists evacuated from Machu Picchu: 1,600 individuals moved due to ongoing demonstrations in Peru
Machu Picchu, the ancient Incan city and UNESCO World Heritage Site, has been disrupted by protests this week, leading to the evacuation of thousands of tourists.
On Tuesday, authorities evacuated an additional 156 visitors, adding to the approximately 1,400 who were evacuated earlier. According to reports, around 900 tourists remain stranded at the site.
The protests are being organised by the Machu Picchu Defense Front, who are demanding representation in the bidding process for the new bus operator at the site. The previous 30-year concession for the bus service has expired.
The new bus operator for transport to Machu Picchu has not been officially announced, and the start date of their operation remains unclear. On Monday, residents placed logs and rocks on the train tracks to further emphasise their demands.
The foreign tourists visiting Machu Picchu on Monday included nationals from France, Japan, America, Poland, Brazil, Germany, and Portugal. Visitors typically travel to Machu Picchu by train from Cusco, then take a bus to the entrance.
Machu Picchu, built in the 15th century at an altitude of 2,500m, is a marvel of architecture and engineering. The site is key to the economy of Peru and attracts approximately 4,500 visitors daily.
Oscar Luque, representative of the Ombudsman in Cusco, was on a train with the tourists who were stranded at Machu Picchu. He reported that evacuations resumed and protests paused until Wednesday morning.
However, some tourists chose to remain at Machu Picchu despite the protests. Tourism minister Desilu Leon stated that the safety of the tourists is the top priority.
The Machu Picchu Defense Front announced that it would continue its action indefinitely until the new transport company starts operations. The organisation has repeatedly been the scene of protests pressing social demands.
The police reported that 14 officers were injured in clashes with protesters during Monday night's unblocking of the tracks. Despite the disruptions, Machu Picchu remains a popular tourist destination and an important part of Peru's cultural heritage.
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