Puno citizens protest urban transport fare increase

Hundreds of citizens, including union leaders, teachers, and retirees, marched through the streets of Puno to protest an increase in urban transport fares from S/ 1 to S/ 1.50. Under the campaign ‘Pague un sol y pague con sencillo’, demonstrators demanded greater competition among transport companies and denounced alleged abuses by drivers.

Protesters noted that fares rose from 60 cents to S/ 1 during the pandemic and never returned to previous levels. While transport operators cite rising fuel costs as justification, demonstrators argue the 50% increase disproportionately affects students, the elderly, and homemakers in a city with shorter routes than Lima or Cusco.

Amador Núñez, president of the Frente de Organizaciones Populares, warned that if authorities do not respond, the movement will radicalize its measures through ‘ruta libre’ (free routes). The group is calling on competent authorities to address fuel prices and ensure fair competition.