Residents of San Julián in Bolivia have blocked the Santa Cruz-Trinidad route at the town’s entrance since Wednesday morning, protesting a recent fare increase by the public transport sector that serves San Julian. The Federación de Juntas Vecinales de San Julián and social organizations accuse the transport unions of violating the general transportation law by raising fares without public consultation.
Protests and Demands: This past Saturday an assembly in San Julián culminated in the decision to block the major route this Tuesday. Residents are demanding a fare reduction from 30 to 25 bolivianos for the San Julián-Santa Cruz trip, citing the town’s economic hardship due to the drought. They are also calling for sanctions against the three transport unions involved.
Negotiations Sought: “We apologize for any inconvenience caused,” said Víctor Hurtado, head of the neighborhood councils, “but this action aims to benefit everyone in San Julián.” Residents are urging a meeting with the Santa Cruz Government to discuss a rollback of the fare increase and a return to the previous price.
Travel Alert: Both lanes of National Route 10 are obstructed by land promontories, with no alternative routes available, according to the latest report from the ABC. Protesters have warned that the blockade will remain in place indefinitely if their demands are not met.