Peru activates aerial bridge to evacuate people stranded in Arequipa

The Peruvian Ministry of Defense has activated a humanitarian aerial bridge to evacuate hundreds of people stranded along the Panamericana Sur highway in the Arequipa region. The isolation was caused by mudslides and debris flows triggered by intense rainfall from a weather phenomenon known as DANA Aníbal.

More than 300 passengers, along with trucks, buses, and vehicles carrying perishable goods, have been trapped for several days in the localities of Atico and Ocoña. The blockage spans at least two kilometers, wedging vehicles between collapsed hillsides and Pacific Ocean cliffs.

Defense Minister Rafael Belaúnde Llosa confirmed that three helicopters and two Navy patrol boats are being deployed for the evacuation. Helicopters were relocated from regions including Madre de Dios and Lima to support the operation. Authorities estimate that the roadway may be cleared between Saturday and Sunday.