The Athens-Thessaloniki National Highway remains closed for the second day at Nikaia, where Thessalian farmers’ tractors have been lined up on the road since yesterday afternoon as part of the start of the farmers’ protests.
At the site, there is a strong presence of farmers and farmers’ associations, while additional machinery is gradually arriving at the blockade, with most expected today to reinforce the farmers’ blockade.
Traffic police continue to redirect traffic via alternative routes to avoid major problems in vehicle flow.
From the incidents, there were three farmers arrested and four injuries (two farmers and two police officers), while at 17:30 a general assembly will take place in Nikaia.
The first day of the protests yesterday was accompanied by incidents in Nikaia and Platykampos, when farmers attempted to approach the National Highway and clashes followed with riot police forces.
Farmers are protesting high production costs, low prices, and delays in payments from OPEKEPE.
Tear gas and stun grenades were used, while there were injuries and three arrests. According to police updates, two arrests took place in Platykampos – one for violence against employees, property damage, and resistance, the second for property damage – while the third arrest occurred at the Nikaia junction for bodily harm and resistance. The prosecutor’s decision regarding the arrested individuals is expected within the day.
The E65 highway remains blocked today as well by tractors from Karditsa farmers, which have been positioned there since yesterday as part of the farmers’ protests.
Additionally, farmers from Trikala will proceed with creating a blockade at the Megalochori junction next Wednesday.
Πηγές: ΑΠΕ-ΜΠΕ, Καθημερινή
