MercoPress. South Atlantic News Agency

Andes tunnel cleared of snow and stranded trucks begin moving

The key mountain highway connecting Argentina with Chile was partially opened for vehicles, as weather conditions improved following days of heavy snow and wind that left thousands of tucks idle on both sides of the border.

"The Cristo Redentor tunnel, (over 4.000 meters above sea level in the Andes) has been partially opened. Mechanical shovels worked all night and most of Sunday to clear tons of snow accumulated", said a spokesperson for Argentina's Highways Department. "Midday Sunday the entrance of the tunnel was partially opened and small cars were allowed to cross. Since Monday 100 trucks at a time from each side are crossing", added the spokesperson. An estimated 6.500 trucks were stuck on both sides of the Andes since last Tuesday when heavy snow fall blocked access to the tunnel which is a vital link for Mercosur ground transport. "In a couple of days all should be back to normal unless heavy snowfall resumes", warned the Highways Department.