Lota Bajo market reopens after sewage flooding

Merchants at the Feria de Lota Bajo in Chile have been authorized to resume operations following a severe flooding event caused by heavy rains and a sewage system collapse. The flooding affected more than 80% of the stalls, with contaminated water entering shops and destroying various goods, including clothing, legumes, and spices.

Paola Huenchuman, president of the Sindicato Feria Libre de Lota, reported that at least two tons of merchandise had to be discarded due to contamination. Vendors were forced to personally clean and sanitize their workspaces to facilitate the reopening. While the resumption of trade provides an urgent source of income for families dependent on daily sales, it does not compensate for the significant financial losses incurred during the disaster.

Local officials, including Mayor Jaime Vásquez, noted the extent of the damage caused by the wastewater. For many long-term vendors, this event follows a history of recurring challenges, including the 2010 earthquake, fires, and the COVID-19 pandemic.