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Protests Halt Machu Picchu Rail as Peru Evacuates 1,400 Tourists, 900 Remain Stranded

A dispute over the Aguas Calientes bus operator triggered blockades that damaged the rail line.

Overview

  • PeruRail suspended operations after stones and logs blocked sections of track and alleged excavations undermined rail stability.
  • Authorities transferred about 1,400 visitors to Cusco, with roughly 900 still unable to leave following new incidents on the road.
  • Police said 14 officers were injured in clashes with demonstrators near the rail route.
  • The conflict follows the end of a 30-year bus concession and a contested move by Urubamba to replace Consettur on the Aguas Calientes–citadel link.
  • Officials scheduled talks with local authorities and unions to seek a solution, as tourism groups warn of reputational damage to Peru.