An attack on the Panamericana highway in Cauca has closed passage to heavy cargo vehicles between Timbío and Rosas, causing delays in supplies to Cali and Valle del Cauca. Officials and industry groups warn of potential food shortages for perishables and price increases. Colfecar reports losses of at least $62,000 million from multiple blockades.
An attack early this week on the Panamericana highway between Timbío and Rosas in Cauca severely damaged the road infrastructure, closing it to heavy cargo vehicles. This disrupts a key corridor linking southwestern Colombia, delaying goods arrival in Cali, capital of Valle del Cauca. Jimena Sarmiento, manager of the Cavasa wholesale center, stated that over 50% of Cali's products come from southern departments including Nariño, Cauca, Putumayo, Caquetá, and Huila. Items like potatoes, blackberries, and vegetables face delays, potentially raising basic basket prices if transit is not restored soon. Nidia Hernández, president of the Colombian Road Freight Transporters Federation (Colfecar), warned that the situation threatens economic stability and supply of food and medicines. Colfecar estimates losses of at least $62,000 million from this and other blockades, such as the miners' strike on the Troncal del Magdalena and closures on Ruta del Sol and in Buenaventura. The National Institute of Roads has a presence in the area, but damage keeps passage restricted. Industry groups urge the government for dialogue and security measures to prevent greater impacts.
