Heavy rains maroon tourists

Peru (AP):

Heavy rains and mud-slides in Peru have blocked the train route to the ancient Inca citadel of Machu Picchu, stranding some 2,000 tourists. Perurail spokeswoman Soledad Caparo says the train operator suspended service yesterday and is working to clear rock and mud covering the tracks. Rail is the only means of transportation on the last leg of the trip to Machu Picchu from the city of Cuzco. Tourism Minister Martin Pérez says the government may send helicopters to evacuate tourists and locals from Machu Picchu Pueblo, the town next to the citadel. Heavy rains have battered the region in the last three days. Floods and slides have also killed two people and damaged stone walls at archaeological sites.