Boulders on Railway Lines Leave Hundreds of Visitors near Peru's Historic Site

At least nearly a thousand tourists remained stuck close to the historic Incan ruins of Machu Picchu on Tuesday, as stated by the country's tourism authority.

Travel came to a halt after rail transport for tourists came to a stop due to civil unrest. Demonstrators had placed large stones and debris across the rail lines, halting all train movement.

Protest Background

The protest erupted recently after the concession ended for the bus company that ferries visitors between Aguas Calientes to the site of the ancient ruins.

Local groups argue that decisions are being made opaquely and impartiality in the process of replacing the tourist bus operator. Protesters want more community input in the vital tourism industry.

Rescue Operations

Government representatives reported that more than 1,400 tourists had been safely removed earlier this week, though an estimated nine hundred were left behind in the base community.

Besides the physical barriers, protesters reportedly disturbed part of the railway line, compromising the safety of the line and slowed down evacuation efforts.

A group of tourists reportedly walking out due to the continuing demonstrations.

Local government are attempting to clear the tracks and ensure the secure evacuation of all remaining travelers.