The Government of Jujuy announced on April 1 a large-scale safety and assistance operation to support more than 10,000 pilgrims and about 80 sikuri bands during the traditional pilgrimage to the Virgin of Punta Corral in Tilcara.
The annual event is significant for the region, drawing thousands of participants who make a challenging ascent. The authorities say that ensuring the well-being of such a large group requires careful planning and coordination among multiple agencies.
According to the government, the operation began at the start of the week and involved coordinated efforts from provincial police, firefighters, emergency medical services (SAME), Human Development officials, municipal staff, and personnel from Emergency Management – Civil Defense. These teams maintained a continuous presence throughout both ascent and descent routes for pilgrims.
A Provincial Emergency Operations Committee was established to coordinate preventive measures, assistance services, and evacuations along key points on the route. Special attention was given to areas like “Siete Vueltas,” which marks one of the highest points accessible by emergency vehicles. During this period, several people required medical attention due to injuries related to physical exertion. Authorities reported evacuating one young person with a possible lower limb fracture and treating three adults for sprains.
The descent operations followed specific protocols because difficult terrain limited vehicle access at higher elevations. More than 100 personnel participated in total—including around 80 police officers—alongside SAME staff, police firefighters, volunteers, Civil Defense teams with rapid intervention vehicles, and ambulances stationed at strategic locations.
Additional support included health stations providing hydration and first aid as well as logistical backing from municipalities and Human Development departments. Communication systems were also reinforced along critical parts of the circuit.
Officials said these efforts reflect an ongoing commitment by Jujuy’s government to safeguard participants in one of its most important faith-based gatherings through prevention-focused planning and immediate response capabilities.
