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A69: Riot Police Try To Dislodge 4ecureuils' At The 'Crem'Arbre' ZAD

Opponents of the A69 highway project are currently living in huts in the trees in Saix, Tarn, France, on February 21, 2024, to prevent the cutting of trees for the construction of the planned highway between Toulouse and Castres. They have established a Zone To Defend (ZAD) called 'Crem'Arbre,' and are referred to as 'Ecureuils' or 'squirrels.' Riot police, known as Gendarmes Mobiles, are intervening to remove the opponents and are now standing guard near the trees to prevent sympathizers from supplying the 'Ecureuils' with food and water. Despite two days of effort by the police, only one 'Ecureuil' has been dislodged. The Human Rights League (LDH) has arrived to provide medical supplies to the 'Ecureuils.' Meanwhile, new trees are being occupied by 'Ecureuils' at a different location called 'Cal'Arbre.' The collective 'La Voie est Libre' is demanding that construction of the highway be halted until all judicial decisions are made. Not all expropriations for farmers have been resolved. Project opponents argue that upgrading the existing N126 would be sufficient for the anticipated 6,000 vehicles per day and would cost significantly less. The A69 highway is projected to cost EUR512 million (in 2018 euros, excluding inflation) for 54 kilometers, and its construction would result in the destruction of over 100 protected species and 400 hectares of agricultural land. (Photo by Alain Pitton/NurPhoto)

Photo Details

Photo ID	#11012768
Date Taken	20 February 2024
Location	N/A
Photographer	Alain Pitton/NurPhoto
Category	Social Issue
Copyright	© 2026 NurPhoto - Alain Pitton/NurPhoto

Related Keywords

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