Farmers’ protests snarl traffic, lead to clashes in Peru

VILLACURI, Peru (AP) — Farmers demanding better pay have blocked a major highway in Peru for days, prompting truckers and motorists caught in nearly 10 miles (15 kilometers) of backed up traffic to pelt them with rocks on Thursday.

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Drivers throw rockers trying to break a blockade on the Pan-American South Highway by farmworkers, on the fourth day of protests against the Agricultural Promotion Law, in Villacuri, Ica province, Peru, Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020. The farmworkers are asking for the elimination of the law, demanding better wages and health benefits. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)

© Provided by Associated Press
Trucks sit idle on the Pan-American South Highway during a blockade set up by farmworkers, on the fourth day of protests against the Agricultural Promotion Law, in Villacuri, Ica province, Peru, Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020. The farmworkers are asking for the elimination of the law, demanding better wages and health benefits. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)

Truckers complained that cargos were about to spoil and motorists complained of lack of food and water. But police declined to intervene at the blockade about 300 kilometers (180 miles) by road south of the Peruvian capital. Other protoests broke out north of Lima, with farm workers clashing with the police who used tear gas.

© Provided by Associated Press
Drivers throw rockers trying to break a blockade on the Pan-American South Highway by farmworkers, on the fourth day of protests against the Agricultural Promotion Law, in Villacuri, Ica province, Peru, Thursday, Dec. 3, 2020. The farmworkers are asking for the elimination of the law, demanding better wages and health benefits. (AP Photo/Rodrigo Abd)

The farm workers in the grape-producing region complain they are paid about $10 for a 12- to 14-hour workday. They are protesting clauses in a law that exempts them from benefits given other workers, including annual bonuses and vacations.