Paraguayan truckers stranded 24 days in Andes, plead for aid

Dozens of Paraguayan truck drivers are stranded in the Andes mountains, caught between Argentina and Chile for over three weeks due to severe winter conditions. The drivers report being isolated in freezing temperatures, facing shortages of basic supplies, and exorbitant prices for food and personal hygiene items. They are urgently appealing for assistance, citing slow consular support and the imminent risk of a tragedy.

The snowstorm has rendered the main border crossings in the region impassable, trapping the drivers in parking areas. The accumulation of snow on the Cristo Redentor pass, which connects Mendoza province in Argentina with Los Andes in Chile, reportedly exceeds six meters, completely blocking heavy vehicle traffic. The drivers express frustration over the lack of aid and the growing uncertainty about when the routes will reopen.

The situation has become increasingly dire, with the recent death of a Brazilian driver at the Jama border crossing raising alarms about the dangers faced by those stranded. Paraguayan drivers like Jorge Benegas described enduring sub-zero temperatures inside their truck cabins and struggling to afford necessities. "Absolutely no one has come to us, no authorities, as far as we know. Absolutely no one," Benegas stated, highlighting the perceived lack of support.

Adding to the hardship, drivers in the Chilean area are also facing similar conditions. While Paraguayan consulate representatives from Buenos Aires reportedly delivered some food supplies near the Uspallata customs office, drivers claim the aid was insufficient and did not reach all stranded compatriots. The drivers are battling not only the extreme cold and low oxygen levels but also the physical and mental toll of prolonged isolation and unmet needs.

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We are in the penultimate location before the mountain range. Everything is very expensive here. So far, no one has come to us, no authorities, as far as we know. Absolutely no one.