Indigenous communities Jutun and Jachuy Aylly Jila have established two roadblocks on the crucial Potosi-Uyuni highway near Puente San Juan and the Charcoyo stop, southwest of Potosi, after an announcement made on Friday. This action comes as separate protests in Oruro have resulted in four additional road closures, creating significant travel disruptions across the region.

Travel Delays and Potential Escalation: Buses arrived late at the Uyuni terminal this morning and the protesters have threatened to escalate their actions by blocking the La Paz-Oruro highway as well, if their demands regarding the recent closure of a local hydroelectric plant and potential job losses are not met.

Travel Alert: Travelers on the Potosí-Uyuni Highway (Ruta Nacional 5) face significant disruptions. The ABC’s Road Accessibility Map currently shows no alternative routes.

While some reports indicate interprovincial buses may have bypassed parts of the blockades with police assistance, there’s no guarantee these won’t be re-established.

Update – 13:43 – 5/20/2024

Following negotiations between the police and protesters at the roadblocks, an agreement was reached a few moments ago. Protesters have agreed to lift the blockades on the Uyuni-Potosí highway, according to a Potosí spokesperson interviewed by Radio Fides. Police have also cleared debris from the roadblocks, allowing traffic to pass.

Of Note: The ABC’s road accessibility map still shows a roadblock on the Uyuni-Potosí highway, and no other regional media have confirmed any agreements between protestors and the police. Motorists should also proceed with caution as there may be residual debris from the roadblocks.

Update – 19:57 – 5/20/2024

The Uyuni-Potosí Highway is now fully open after the roadblocks were lifted.