El Alto Blockade: Fuel Crisis Sparks Indefinite Road Closure in Bolivia

El Alto Blockade Disrupts Key Bolivian Roads Amidst Fuel Crisis El Alto, Bolivia – June 3, 2025 – Residents of El Alto have initiated an indefinite blockade on the Laja highway, a vital route connecting to Desaguadero (bordering Peru) and Copacabana. The protest, fueled by rising prices and acute fuel shortages, has brought traffic to a standstill and underscores the growing economic hardship faced by Bolivians. "We've been here since early morning," stated a resident participating in the blockade, "We demand a solution to the fuel crisis and an end to the price hikes that are crippling our families." The blockade is not limited to a single point. Multiple locations along the Laja highway and the road to Copacabana are affected, causing significant disruption to commerce and transportation. Long lines of vehicles waiting for fuel are visible in the video footage, further illustrating the severity of the situation. The protest organizers, affiliated with a local federation of neighborhood associations, have vowed to maintain the blockade until authorities address their concerns. The government has yet to issue an official response, leaving the duration of the blockade and its potential long-term consequences uncertain. The situation highlights the need for immediate action to resolve the fuel shortage and address the broader economic challenges facing the region.