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After The Legally Binding Rapport Of Michel Forst, Activist Try To Resupply Activists In The 'Crem'Arbre' ZAD

Activists are facing riot police in Saix, France, on March 1, 2024, after the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders, Michel Forst, demanded the resupply of 'Ecureuils' living in the trees of the 'Crem'Arbre' ZAD (Zone To Defend). Members of LVEL (La Voie Est Libre, or The Way Is Free) and other associations are attempting to pass through the riot police to deliver supplies to the 'Ecureuils'. MPs, including Karen Erodial, have also tried unsuccessfully to get through. On the planned A69 highway between Toulouse and Castres, opponents have set up a ZAD called 'Crem'Arbre', where 'Ecureuils' ('squirrels') are living in the trees to prevent them from being cut down. Gendarmes Mobiles (riot police) have intervened to clear the ZAD of all opponents and are now standing guard near the trees to block the supply of food and water by sympathizers. Despite two days of police efforts, they have only managed to dislodge one 'Ecureuil'. However, new trees are being occupied by 'Ecureuils' at a new site called 'Cal'Arbre'. The main collective 'La Voie est Libre' is demanding that the highway project be halted until all judicial decisions are made. The expropriations for farmers have not been resolved. Opponents argue that reprofiling the N126 would be sufficient for the 6,000 vehicles expected per day and would cost much less. 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)

Photo ID	#11041300
Date Taken	1 March 2024
Location	N/A
Photographer	Alain Pitton/NurPhoto
Category	Social Issue
Copyright	© 2026 NurPhoto - Alain Pitton/NurPhoto

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