President Boric Launches Construction of 27-Kilometer Santiago Metro Line 9 With 35-Minute Travel Time Amid Snowfall Disruptions

Construction has commenced on Santiago's new Metro Line 9, a 27-kilometer route connecting Estación Puente Cal y Canto to Plaza de Puente Alto. The project was officially launched by President Gabriel Boric in La Pintana, marking a milestone for the southern sector of Santiago. The new line is expected to begin operations in 2030 and will reduce travel time between Cal y Canto and Puente Alto to 35 minutes, benefiting approximately two million residents by providing more time for personal and family activities. Meanwhile, Santiago and surrounding areas are experiencing early snowfall, with snow reported in eastern communes such as La Florida, Lo Barnechea, and San José de Maipo. The snowfall has led to the closure of several routes, including Cuesta La Dormida and the Paso Internacional Los Libertadores, as well as the suspension of classes in some areas. In response to safety concerns, four stations on Metro Santiago's Line 1 were temporarily closed due to a person on the tracks. The snowfall in the Bío Bío region is expected to reach up to 40 centimeters in mountainous areas, impacting local transportation and daily activities.