Guatemala faces major transport disruptions on CA-9 highways

Guatemala is facing significant logistical challenges due to simultaneous disruptions on major national highways.

On the CA-9 Sur (Pacific Route), protesters blocked traffic near kilometer 37 close to San Vicente Pacaya for approximately 10 hours. The demonstrators cited rising fuel prices, the frequent issuance of traffic fines by municipal agents, and called for the resignation of Pai Ela Escobar Pérez, the head of the General Directorate of Transport. The blockade was cleared around 17:10 hours, restoring circulation to areas including Villa Nueva and Amatitlán.

Separately, the collapse of the Huijó bridge between kilometers 110 and 111 on the CA-9 Atlantic Route is impacting regional trade. The damage threatens the supply chain for goods moving between Guatemala and Belize, Honduras, and El Salvador. While alternative routes are available, the disruption is expected to increase transport costs and delay the movement of raw materials and finished goods during a high-demand period for year-end commerce. Communications Minister Norma Lissette Zea Osorio has confirmed that the government is working on short-term measures to establish a provisional passage through the affected area.