Peru launches air bridge to evacuate stranded travelers on Pan-American Highway

Peru's Ministry of Defense has established a humanitarian air bridge to rescue individuals stranded by severe weather along the Pan-American Highway in the Arequipa region. Intense rainfall has caused landslides and debris flows, blocking the crucial route for six days and trapping hundreds of people and vehicles, especially in the towns of Atico and Ocoña.

The Southern Operational Command is overseeing the rescue efforts. Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde Llosa announced that three helicopters are dedicated to evacuating those in need. "We are going to supervise the air bridge, which will be carried out by three helicopters whose mission will be to evacuate people who require it," he stated. Additionally, two Navy patrol boats are available to assist in the evacuation process.

Belaúnde Llosa explained that the emergency response was constrained by aircraft availability. Two helicopters were relocated from Madre de Dios, and another is being sent from Lima. A fourth helicopter had previously been moved from the VRAEM region to Pisco to address an earlier emergency. The minister also noted that 43 helicopters are currently operational for potential impacts related to the El Niño phenomenon.

The stranded passengers and drivers have been waiting for assistance since the road closures began. The air bridge aims to prioritize the evacuation of the most vulnerable individuals while efforts continue to clear the highway and restore traffic flow.