The battle of the A69: between barricades and despair

Persistence in the field

Some protesters chose to stay near the evacuated site, marking their continued presence and opposition to the project. They are determined to maintain their position, despite the intervention of the police. “I will not leave the place, I will stay there. There are hundreds and hundreds of us who want to stay here,” says a demonstrator, thus illustrating the collective determination.

Solidarity and remote support

Others, although physically distant from the site, remain engaged in the struggle. They are exploring ways to support the cause, whether through social media or other forms of remote mobilization. This broader solidarity shows that resistance is not just local, but resonates with a broader audience.

Preparation for future actions

Protesters are also considering new actions to thwart the project’s progress. Sabotage and occupation operations are planned, showing a desire to diversify resistance tactics. Opponents seem ready to explore all possible avenues to slow down, or even stop, the progress of the construction site.

A fight for nature

At the heart of this resistance is a deep concern for the environment. Protesters criticize the project as destructive to local nature and biodiversity. They see the highway project as a symbol of an approach that prioritizes economic interests over the environment and the community.

Hurts and despair : Thomas Brail marked

Thomas Brail, emblematic figure of environmental resistance, was marked both physically and emotionally during the evacuation of the ZAD. The images and testimonies reveal an injured man, in pain and despair, after being caught in a charge by law enforcement.

The aftermath of the confrontation

Brail suffered notable injuries, including a baton blow to the leg and another to the wrist, the latter of which was severely affected. The physical injuries he suffered are a tangible reflection of the brutality of the confrontation, but they only tell part of the story.

A moral in Berne

Beyond the physical injuries, it is Brail’s morale which seems to have been deeply affected. His words reveal a man plagued by doubt and uncertainty about how to continue the fight. “I don’t know what to do anymore to fight!”, he expressed, thus illustrating the emotional weight of the confrontation.

A desire for family comfort

Despite his initial determination to remain at the scene, Brail, exhausted and demoralized, expressed his desire to return home, perhaps seeking comfort and comfort from his family. This reveals a human and vulnerable facet of resistance, where the need for emotional and family support takes a central place.

Thomas Brail, through his injuries and his despair, has become a poignant symbol of the fight against the A69 motorway project. Her personal experience reflects the challenges, sacrifices and dilemmas activists face in their quest to protect the environment and their communities.

The unshakeable authorities

The authorities showed unwavering determination in the evacuation of the ZAD, mobilizing an impressive force of 1,200 gendarmes. The operation, massive and rapid, highlighted the firmness of the authorities in the face of the resistance of the demonstrators.

No room for a ZAD

The official declarations have been clear: no ZAD will be tolerated on the site of the A69 motorway project. The prefect of Tarn, Michel Vilbois, and the Minister of Transport, Clément Beaune, have both affirmed this position, thus marking an undisputed red line.

Thanks and congratulations

The efforts of the police were recognized and praised by the authorities. The Minister of the Interior expressed his thanks, emphasizing the courage of the police in the face of what he described as “violent individuals”.

A firm speech

Clément Beaune, the Minister of Transport, was particularly vocal, asserting forcefully that the A69 motorway project would not be hampered by a minority. He stressed the need to respect the law and the decisions taken by the elected majority, thus rejecting any attempt to illegally block the project.

Conclusion: a continuing struggle

The battle for the A69 is far from over. It continues in the hearts and minds of protesters, despite the hurts and disappointments. The coming days may reveal new facets of this resistance, as opponents seek new ways to make their voices heard and protect their land.