Paso Los Libertadores normalizes vehicular traffic this Saturday with restrictions for tourists in Portillo

Chile’s border crossing at Paso Los Libertadores has resumed full vehicle traffic this Saturday with restrictions for local tourist vehicles, according to officials. The decision follows weeks of closures due to adverse weather conditions. The normalization of traffic will allow all types of vehicles, including cargo trucks, buses, and private cars, to cross into Argentina, except for local tourism vehicles, which face specific limitations. The subsecretary of the Interior, Máximo Pavez, outlined the new measures during a briefing. He stated that starting at 8:00 a.m. on Saturday, all private vehicles will have unrestricted access to the Portillo area. However, from 12:00 p.m. onward, private cars will be prohibited from continuing beyond the Guardia Vieja checkpoint. This restriction applies exclusively to locally operated tourist vehicles, while commercial transport and international vehicles remain unaffected. Pavez clarified that cargo trucks and buses departing from Chile can continue their journey without interruption. These vehicles are allowed to pass through the border under current conditions. Additionally, private vehicles that had already entered the Portillo area will be permitted to return until 5:00 p.m. on Saturday. The policy aims to balance safety concerns with the need for continued movement of goods and essential services. International vehicles, including those from Argentina, will maintain free passage until 8:00 p.m., when the Cristo Redentor tunnel closes. This schedule is subject to change based on weather conditions. The temporary measure is intended to ensure safe and efficient transit while addressing the risks posed by ongoing weather challenges. The decision comes after several weeks of reduced traffic due to heavy rains and snowfall in the region. The closure disrupted both local and international travel, affecting businesses and residents reliant on the border crossing. The reopening marks a step toward restoring normalcy, though authorities emphasize that conditions could still lead to further adjustments. Local tourism operators have expressed mixed reactions. Some welcomed the resumption of traffic, seeing it as a sign of recovery, while others raised concerns over the restrictions on private vehicles. Tourism in the area is heavily dependent on seasonal visitors, and the changes could impact visitor numbers and revenue. Meanwhile, logistics companies and freight operators have generally supported the continuation of commercial transport, viewing it as crucial for economic stability. Authorities have advised travelers to check for updates before planning trips, as conditions may still pose challenges. The situation remains fluid, and further announcements are expected depending on the evolving weather forecast. For now, the partial reopening represents a cautious but positive shift in managing the border’s operations amid environmental constraints.