Rural Communities Block Pan-American Highway in Cauca Over Energy and Road Issues

Rural communities in the northern Cauca region of Colombia have blocked the vital Pan-American Highway, severing the connection between Cali and Popayán. The protest, centered in the Mandivá sector of Santander de Quilichao, began on Tuesday, July 14, 2026, causing significant traffic delays and long queues of vehicles.

The demonstrators are demanding immediate attention and concrete solutions from the Compañía Energética de Occidente (CEO) regarding recurring and prolonged failures in the electricity service affecting rural areas. They seek definitive technical solutions to ensure a stable power supply.

In addition to the energy issues, the communities are protesting the lack of progress on road infrastructure commitments made by the Nuevo Cauca concession. Specifically, they are calling for the construction of road turnarounds to facilitate safe access to their villages. The absence of these improvements hinders agricultural transport, daily commutes, and the timely response to medical emergencies.

Reports indicate moments of tension at the blockade site as some drivers attempted to force their way through. Local authorities and law enforcement are monitoring the situation closely, aiming to mediate dialogue between the protest leaders and the involved entities to restore traffic flow. The protesters have stated their intention to maintain the blockade until their demands are met with concrete commitments.