Editorial photo #11012765 Social Issue
A69: Riot Police Try To Dislodge 4ecureuils' At The 'Crem'Arbre' ZAD
''Squirrels'' are currently living in a centuries-old oak tree in the woods of Saix, Tarn Department, France, on February 21, 2024, to prevent its cutting for the planned A69 highway between Toulouse and Castres. Opponents of the project have established a Zone To Defend (ZAD) named 'Crem'Arbre,' where these ''squirrels'' are occupying trees to hinder their removal. Riot police, known as Gendarmes Mobiles, are intervening to clear the ZAD of all opponents and are now standing guard near the trees to prevent sympathizers from supplying food and water to the ''squirrels.'' Despite two days of police efforts, only one ''squirrel'' has been dislodged. The Human Rights League (LDH) is providing medical supplies to the ''squirrels.'' Meanwhile, new trees are being occupied by ''squirrels'' at a new location called 'Cal'Arbre.' The collective 'La Voie est Libre' is demanding a halt to the highway construction until all judicial decisions are made. The expropriation of farmers' land is not yet resolved. Project opponents argue that upgrading the N126 would be sufficient for the anticipated 6,000 vehicles per day and would be much less costly. The A69 highway is projected to cost EUR512 million (in 2018 euros, excluding inflation) for 54 kilometers, and its construction would destroy over 100 protected species and 400 hectares of agricultural land. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)
