Alerts on damage to Machu Picchu

April 6th, 2007

The recently built bridge of Carrilluchayoc, in the nearby Santa teresa district, is threatening to deteriorate the Inca citadel of Machu Picchu. According to Alda Lazo, congresswoman and president of the Culture and Heritage Commission of the Congress, the bridge was built without a decent environmental impact study. And, obviously, despite the objections of government cultural experts.

The threat derives, in first place, from the expected vehicle transit over the bridge, which could seriously damage the Machu Picchu Historical Sanctuary, as well as the citadel itself.

Moreover, the bridge has opened a new, uncontrolled entrance route to the Inca archaeological complex. This new route, involving a daylong bus ride and a seven-mile hike along railroad tracks, targets thrifty backpackers who want to avoid the pricey train tickets. The already stressed-out stone citadel, already at almost top-capacity, could not bear the increased -and much unchecked- tourist flow.

During mid April, UNESCO, which has expressed concern over Machu Picchu’s increasing tourism, will send a delegation to the citadel in order to study the Carrilluchayoc bridge matter.

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