Machu Picchu reopens after three-week shutdown

LIMA, Peru (AP) — Machu Picchu reopened on Wednesday after being closed for three weeks amid antigovernment protests, Peru’s culture ministry announced.

The decision was an agreement between authorities, social groups and the local tourism industry to guarantee the security of the tourist attraction and transport services.

Protests calling for the resignation of President Dina Boluarte and members of Peru’s Congress have shaken the region, including Cusco, for more than two months. The demonstrations caused a blockade of the train tracks leading to Machu Picchu.

The protests have led to 60 deaths: 48 civilians who died in clashes with security forces, 11 civilians killed in traffic accidents related to road blockades and one policeman who died inside a patrol car when it was set on fire, according to data from the Ombudsman’s Office.

The closure of Machu Picchu on Jan. 21 forced the government to airlift more than 400 tourists from Machu Picchu to the city of Cusco by helicopter.

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