La Paz Merchants Face Ruin as Plaza Murillo Closures Cripple Businesses

La Paz Merchants Struggle Amidst Plaza Murillo Closures La Paz, Bolivia – Merchants operating near Plaza Murillo in La Paz are facing severe financial difficulties due to street closures and restricted access implemented for security reasons. These restrictions, in place for two weeks, have drastically reduced pedestrian traffic, causing a significant drop in sales for many businesses. "We can't work like this with everything closed," lamented one merchant interviewed in the video, expressing the widespread frustration felt by the community. "Where are we going to sell?" Another merchant, speaking from her store, added, "We are enclosed inside, affected because we have to pay rent." These sentiments reflect the widespread economic hardship impacting the area. The closures, while implemented for security purposes, have created an unintended consequence: the crippling of local businesses. The video shows the stark contrast between the usually bustling streets and the current near-deserted atmosphere. The hope is that a solution can be found that balances security needs with the economic well-being of the local merchants.