Jujuy construction workers dismissed as Route 34 works halt

A private contractor has permanently halted construction work on National Route 34 in Jujuy, resulting in the dismissal of 180 construction workers. The decision follows a 20-day unpaid suspension period intended to allow for the settlement of outstanding debts.

The construction union, UOCRA, reports that the contractor is facing a massive debt from the National Road Administration (Vialidad Nacional). Estimates of the unpaid certificates for work completed since last year range between 19,000 and 23,000 million pesos.

UOCRA secretary Ramón Neyra stated that the company chose to terminate the workforce due to the lack of financial flow from the national government. The workers have held assemblies and are considering further protest measures as the paralysis of this strategic infrastructure project continues.