Blockades cut 70% of output at Colombia's Cerrejon coal mine
Nearly week-long road blockades have cut 70% of output from Colombia's Cerrejon coal mine, the largest in Latin America, the company owned by Glencore Plc (GLEN.L) said on Tuesday, asking the government to intercede with protesters.
Blockades on roads and rail lines around the mine are not uncommon. Former workers blocked a rail line last year and Cerrejon has had repeated disagreements with nearby Wayuu indigenous communities and its largest union, which held a three-month strike in 2020.
"Cerrejon's operation has been affected, for six days, because of various illegal blockades. Though they are still peaceful, they impede access to operational areas of the company," the company said in a statement. "The people carrying out the blockades are demanding access to water services, larger social investment and jobs at the company."
There are other blockades unrelated to the company being held by truck drivers on a nearby highway, the statement said, adding Cerrejon is committed to building lasting alliances with neighboring communities.
"If this situation is prolonged, Cerrejon will need to suspend some service contracts, which represent a local economic impact because it directly affects numerous purveyors in the region," the company said, adding it may also impact royalties and tax payments.
"We call on authorities to support a peaceful resolution to the blockades," it added. Read More...
