The Pan American Highway in western Panama has been closed for several days now by protesting indigenous Ngäbe Bugle Indians over disputes with the government about mining and hydroelectric projects in their region. Trees and other debris are used to block the road, and clashes with police have been violent at times.
While we are well away from the protest, we are nevertheless cut off from the rest of the world by the blockages. We have developed shortages very quickly. Gasoline was the first to be completely sold out, and then diesel became scarce. Fresh fruits and vegetables have not been delivered, and tourists, other than those flying in, cannot arrive. The ferry from Almirante has ceased operations.
We are luckily in good shape personally. We had just topped off diesel and gasoline, and filled our propane shortly before this began. This was pure luck, as we had no insight that this was about to happen. My dental appointment with Dr. Wong was cancelled as he normally arrives from Almirante on the ferry.
So far no real adverse impact on us, and we are enjoying our time on Bastimentoes.
Based on the news, we expect this to be resolved soon.
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