Flimsy homes dangle precariously over a cliff in Bolivia

In the highland city of El Alto, Bolivia, residents are living in homes precariously positioned on the edge of a cliff, which has earned them the nickname 'suicide homes.' These flimsy structures are constructed from materials such as colorful corrugated metal and are situated inches from a sheer drop that descends hundreds of feet to a rocky escarpment below. Municipal officials, including Gabriel Pari, have raised alarms about the dangers posed by the ongoing erosion of the cliff, urging residents to abandon their homes to prevent potential disasters. As weather patterns become increasingly severe due to climate change, the risks associated with these homes heighten, yet many residents remain committed to their living and working arrangements. The residents of these homes often include Aymara shamans, known as yatiris, who utilize the precarious locations for their spiritual practices. They make offerings to Pachamama or Earth Mother in ceremonies intended to secure the stability of their homes. Yatiri Manuel Mamani defends the residents’ stance, insisting that they cannot relocate since this area serves as their workplace. This defiance is based on the belief that through proper offerings, they can maintain a sense of safety and connection with the land. The inhabitants have developed strategies to manage threats from the environment, planning to channel rainwater to reduce the effects of erosion. The backdrop of El Alto adds another layer of complexity, as the city's landscape is marked by steep valleys and proximity to towering Andean mountains. Authorities have constructed cable cars to aid in local transportation due to the challenging terrain, compounded by the high-altitude and extreme weather conditions. Local leaders recognize the dangers of the eroding cliffs but face frustrations as they attempt to persuade the inhabitants to leave, with some advocating for forceful removals. Meanwhile, the shamans maintain hope, placing their faith in their traditional practices and the belief that their offerings can somehow counteract the destructive forces of nature. This clash between community practices and safety concerns highlights broader issues of urban planning, environmental degradation, and cultural traditions in Bolivia. The exponential pressures of climate change create an urgent need for sustainable solutions in high-risk areas like El Alto. While officials push for relocation and the abandonment of 'suicide homes,' the resistance of residents illustrates the complex interplay between culture, spirituality, and the realities of living on the edge.