The ancient Incan citadel of Machu Picchu in Peru has recently been closed due to protests that have erupted in the country. The protests were sparked by a political crisis that began in November, with citizens calling for the resignation of President Marítn Vizcarra and his eventual impeachment. The situation has since escalated to widespread unrest, with violent clashes between protesters and police reported in cities across the country.
As a result of the ongoing protests, the Peruvian government has suspended entry to Machu Picchu, a UNESCO World Heritage site that attracts millions of tourists each year. The closure has had a significant impact on the local economy, which relies heavily on tourism. The closure has caused many local businesses to shut down, and thousands of people have been left without jobs. Hotels, restaurants, and other tourist-dependent businesses have seen a sharp decline in revenue due to the lack of visitors to the site.
Tourists visiting Peru have also been affected by the closure of Machu Picchu. Many have had to cancel or reschedule their trips, and some have been stranded in the region due to the closure of airports and highways. It’s estimated that the tourism industry in the region has lost millions of dollars as a result of the closure. Many tour operators have had to refund or reschedule booked tours, and travelers have had to make alternative plans.
The local government has also imposed a curfew in the region to prevent further violence, which has made it difficult for locals and tourists to move around the region. The police have also been deployed in large numbers to keep the peace. This has led to an increased sense of insecurity among both locals and tourists, as the curfew and heavy police presence can be intimidating.
The closure of Machu Picchu also has a negative impact on the preservation of the site. The site receives regular maintenance and conservation work to preserve its historical integrity, but with the lack of visitors, this work may be delayed or halted. Additionally, the closure could also lead to an increase in looting and vandalism at the site as it remains unguarded and unprotected.
Machu Picchu is an important source of income for the local communities that surround the site. The closure of the site has led to a loss of income for local guides, porters, and vendors who rely on tourism to make a living. This could lead to increased poverty and unemployment in the region, which already faces socio-economic challenges.