The government declared a state of emergency in the Apurímac-Cusco-Arequipa corridor, also known as the mining corridor, due to continuous manifestations by local communities.
The decree, signed by President Martin Vizcarra, declared a state of emergency in the mining corridor in the province of Chumbivilcas, Cusco. The decree was published on Wednesday, October 16 in the El Peruano gazette.
The decree states that for 30 days, the National Police will maintain control of the area with the help of the Armed Forces. The affected area consists of the Apurímac-Cusco-Arequipa corridor, which passes through the Ccapacmarca, Colquemarca, Chamaca y Velille districts, and the 500 meters on either side of the roads.
The measure is a response to almost a month of numerous manifestations and road blocks initiated by the communities of the Chumbivilcas province. On September 22, the community of Cancahuani occupied the mining corridor, blocking the passage of convoys belonging to the copper mining project Las Bambas.
The communities have been in numerous talks with Las Bambas regarding compensation for the construction and use of roads that pass through these communities, as well as agreements to minimize and control the negative environmental impact generated by the mining project. The communities ask that Las Bambas work with them on finding solutions that comply with their rights and requests.
The measure suspends the exercise of constitution rights in the area, including the freedom of assembly and the inviolability of the home, allowing representatives of the state to enter homes in the area without consent.
Source: Andina.pe
Cover photo: Andina.pe
