Protests in Biobío demand road concession model

Protesters in the Biobío Region have blocked roads between Lota and Coronel to demand that the construction of public transport corridors—specifically Routes 150, 160, and the Concepción-Talcahuano highway—remains under a concession model.

Demonstrators argue that transferring these projects to the Directorate of Highways (Vialidad) could delay construction by four to five years. The mobilization coincides with a presidential visit to the region and precedes an announcement by the Biminister of Public Works and Transport, Louis de Grange, regarding the Regional Infrastructure Plan.

Lota Mayor Jaime Vásquez criticized the centralist decision-making process, stating that the lack of communication and the potential transfer of projects to Vialidad represent a lack of respect for the region and will cause significant delays.