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Megabassines: in Vienne, new face-offs between activists and law enforcement
Megabassines: in Vienne, new face-offs between activists and law enforcement
(franceinfo)
On Friday afternoon, July 19, a new demonstration against the megabasins took place in Vienne. These gigantic water reservoirs are supposed to allow farmers to pump groundwater in winter. Several thousand opponents demonstrated despite the ban by the authorities.
A curtain of fire in the middle of the field in Vienne, Friday July 19. On one side, the police, and on the other, the demonstrators who are trying to advance. The tear gas grenades thrown by the police are the cause of the flames. After a few minutes, the anti-basin activists turn back. They were pushed back after trying to access a factory and a water reserve.
Opponents are demanding a moratorium on the construction of a gigantic water reservoir. From the morning, this group defied the ban on demonstrating despite an impressive security presence. In the crowd, several individuals were masked. The authorities fear the presence of black blocs and violence similar to that of the demonstrations in Sainte-Soline (Deux-Sèvres), 15 months ago. Farmers in favor of the mega-basins also tried to make their voices heard. The police seized more than 1,400 sharp objects and flammable products. On Saturday, July 20, opponents are planning other demonstrations in La Rochelle (Charente-Maritime).
