Chile’s president has declared a state of emergency in the capital Santiago, giving the military responsibility for security after a day of violent protests over an increase in the price of metro rapid transit system tickets.


Report says protesters clashed with riot police in several parts of the city and the subway system was shut after attacks on several stations.


Enel Chile, a subsidiary of Italian utility Enel, said vandals had set fire to the company’s high-rise corporate headquarters in the city centre.


Local television footage showed flames climbing up the side of the building as firefighters struggled to break through growing crowds of protesters.


Pinera, in a broadcast, said government will call for a dialogue to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the increase in fares .