The administration of Iguazu National Park in Argentina has decided to cease online issuance of free tickets for the Iguazu Falls following allegations of fraud. This decision was enacted because attempts to monitor and control the distribution of these tickets revealed potential irregularities, particularly those allocated to local residents, retirees, people with disabilities, veterans of the Falklands War, and children under six. The new measure, which requires tickets to be picked up in person, took effect on Wednesday, October 4.

José María Hervás, the park's superintendent, confirmed that the National Parks Administration has reported these discrepancies to the Argentine Federal Justice for further investigation. Preliminary audits suggest that the online system was vulnerable to misuse, enabling individuals to enter personal information and improperly claim complimentary tickets that were intended for specific groups in the community. The halt of online sales aims to restore integrity in the ticketing system and ensure that the privileges associated with free admission are rightfully distributed.

The implications of this move extend beyond operational changes at the park. By shifting ticket distribution back to a more traditional method, authorities hope to increase oversight and decrease opportunities for fraudulent claims. This strategy not only seeks to safeguard the rights of eligible individuals but also enhances the park's reputation as a fair and accessible tourism spot. The ongoing investigation will likely further illuminate the extent of fraudulent activities and may lead to future reforms in ticketing policies within the park and potentially other national parks in Argentina.