Chile's Alto Maule region rallies against transmission tower project

Regional authorities, local officials and community groups gathered in Talca to oppose the privately‑owned Los Cóndores interconnection project that would install high‑voltage transmission towers across the Alto Maule area. Governor Pedro Pablo Álvarez‑Salamanca urged the environmental evaluation committee to reject the plan, saying it conflicts with the regional drive to have the zone designated as a UNESCO World Geopark. Mayor Juan Rojas of San Clemente echoed the call, stressing the project's incompatibility with the area's natural and cultural heritage.

Hundreds of residents braved rain on July 25 for a public walk‑out, organized by the movement Salvemos Alto Maule. Speakers, including movement spokesperson Bárbara Meneses, highlighted the biodiversity and cultural value of the region and appealed for a vote against the towers in the upcoming environmental review. The protest aims to protect the Alto Maule corridor while supporting its UNESCO geopark bid.