Fuel Tax Strikes Bring Peru's Southern Cities To Grinding Halt

Strikes have stopped several of Peru's main cities, with transportation brought to a halt in Arequipa, Cusco, Puno and Tacna in protest against a hike in the Selective Consumption Tax affecting fuel prices.

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International, city and interprovincial transport has been stopped completely in some southern parts of the country.

Protesters took the central plazas of Arequipa and Cusco to express outrage over what they say are austerity policies affecting workers.

The strike has been called for 24 hours, but could continue if the state fails to respond.

In Arequipa, one of Peru's cultural and economic hubs, the strike was called by the Workers' Defense Front of Arequipa, and included workers in transport, construction, education, universities and public servants.

In the city, school was suspended by the Regional School Board. A national tsunami and earthquake drill was also suspended in light of the strikes.

Hospitals workers, however, have continued to work, maintaining healthcare services.