Peru: Police guard Machu Picchu railway to ensure security, prevent incidents

12:00 | Urubamba (Cusco region), Sep. 17.

Peruvian National Police (PNP) agents are guarding the Ollantaytambo–Machu Picchu railway to ensure security, maintain public order, and prevent further incidents, the Ombudsman's Office Representative in Cusco, Oscar Luque, stated on Wednesday.

The official indicated that the protest in Machu Picchu Pueblo district continues.

Therefore, train service operations to Machu Picchu remain suspended.

In this context, Luque called for calm among the population, assuring them that their demands will be heard at the upcoming meeting between mayors Ronald Vera (Urubamba province), and Elvis La Torre Uñaccori (Machu Picchu district).

Tourists evacuated

On the other hand, the Ombudsman's Office representative reported that more than 300 tourists who had been stranded in the town of Machu Picchu Pueblo were evacuated on Tuesday night, under National Police protection, to the district of Ollantaytambo. From there, they were transported by bus and car to the city of Cusco.

Luque specified that, after a conversation with leaders of the Qoriwayrachina community, passage was secured for the transfer of visitors, ensuring their safety.

The official reported that during his time in Qoriwayrachina, he was able to speak with the demonstrators. They expressed their discontent and presented their list of demands, which currently remain unresolved, such as the entry of a new bus company on the Hiram Bingham route.

"The request has been forwarded to the central office; however, this issue will be addressed on September 19th, when the mayors of Urubamba and Machu Picchu meet," Luque said.

"During an interview with residents today, we saw people who are not willing to confront; they only want to be heard," he stated regarding the protest and the clash with law enforcement, which left civilians and police agents injured on Monday night. 

(END) PHS/MAO/JMP/MVB

Published: 9/17/2025