In La Rochelle, the demonstration divided between clashes and family outing

The second demonstration against the megabasins was tense. Between 5,000, according to the prefecture, and 10,000 people, according to the organizers, gathered on Saturday, July 20 in La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime) to express their opposition to the construction of these contested water reserves. Although the demonstration, which had been banned, was peaceful, clashes broke out with the police. In one of the two marches, 500 black blocs, some from Belgium, Italy or Germany, destroyed street furniture and signs. In total, seven people were arrested.

These incidents contrasted with the rest of the procession, which circulated in a more peaceful atmosphere, with the support of some local residents. Their goal was to return to the port of La Pallice, the second largest exporter of cereals in France, while they consider that the major players in the sector are complicit in the construction of the mega-basins.