Boyacá Province Disrupted by Protests: Tour of Colombia Canceled, Milk Supply Threatened
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DUITAMA, BOYACÁ – August 5, 2025 – Ongoing protests and road blockades across the Boyacá province are causing notable disruptions, leading to the cancellation of a stage of the Tour of Colombia cycling race and the spoilage of over 140,000 liters of milk. The unrest stems from concerns voiced by miners and rural farmers (parameros) regarding unemployment and economic hardship.
Carlos Amaya, Governor of Boyacá, stated via Twitter that authorities are actively monitoring the situation and coordinating responses wiht relevant institutions. The Policía Boyacá is also involved in monitoring and response efforts.
Key Developments:
- Tour of Colombia Stage Canceled: The fifth stage of the Tour of Colombia, scheduled to run from Duitama to Tocancipá, was canceled due to blockades near Paipa and on the Boyacá bridge. Teams and cyclists are being rerouted via Sogamoso-Yopal-Villavicencio.
- Milk spoilage: Over 140,000 liters of milk are reported spoiled due to transport delays caused by the strikes. Additionally, vehicles transporting onions, tomatoes, bananas, and cattle are also affected. Reports indicate at least six vehicles carrying perishable food are experiencing losses, though authorities currently state there is no widespread food shortage.
- Miner and Farmer Concerns: The protests are driven by unemployment among miners and *parameros* – agricultural workers specializing in cold-weather crops – in the Boyacá department. Specific grievances haven’t been detailed in initial reports.
Background: Boyacá’s Economic Landscape
Boyacá is a key agricultural region in Colombia,known for its dairy production,onion farming,and potato cultivation. The province also has a significant mining sector, notably in the areas of salt and coal extraction. The *paramero* community plays a vital role in the region’s agricultural output, specializing in crops that thrive in Boyacá’s high-altitude climate. Disruptions to transportation networks substantially impact these industries, leading to economic losses and potential food security concerns.
The Tour of colombia is an annual multi-stage bicycle race considered one of the most important cycling events in Latin America. Its cancellation highlights the severity of the current unrest and its impact on regional events.
