Residents of Feijó, a town in the interior of Acre, Brazil, have ended a three-day blockade of BR-364 that began on Friday, aiming to press for improvements in public health services and the completion of their local hospital project. Approximately 50 residents participated in the protest, which resulted in significant delays for other motorists, who had to wait up to four hours while only priority vehicles were allowed through.

The blockade was lifted on Sunday after negotiations between the protesters and the Federal Highway Police. Authorities indicated that the issues raised during the protest would be addressed; the State Secretary of Public Works and the Secretary of Health announced that the first phase of the new hospital unit is expected to be completed by April, with investments exceeding R$ 5 million sourced from both state and federal funds.

This protest highlights the ongoing challenges in public health infrastructure in Brazil’s remote regions, where residents often face long wait times and inadequate facilities. The successful dialogue between the residents and the government illustrates a crucial moment of civic engagement that may set a precedent for future community demands for better services in the region.