26 Jan 2024 | 05:51 PM UTC
France: Taxi and VTC drivers to demonstrate in several cities Jan. 29-30 /update 1
Taxi and VTC drivers to conduct convoy protests in several cities across France Jan. 29-30. Transport, service disruptions likely.
Taxi and VTC drivers are planning protests and strikes in several cities Jan. 29-30. The purpose of the action is to denounce new contractual rules requiring taxis to provide free transportation to medical patients. Organizers have announced plans for demonstrations in Le Havre, Rouen, and Montpellier on Jan. 29, as well as in Marseille on Jan. 30; however, no details concerning specific locations or start times have as yet been released.
Organizers have released details plans for the following demonstrations:
Lyon: Two columns of taxis will form at Matmut State de Gerland (Avenue Jean Jaures) and Porte de Lyon in Dadilly at 08:00. Both processions will proceed to the Caisse primaire d'assurances maladie (CPAM) office (Cr. Emile Zola) for a rally, but traveling together to the Auverne-Rhone-Alps Regional Health Agency (Rue Garibaldi) and the Rhone Prefecture building (Cr. de la Liberte).
Reims: Participants will gather at the CPAM building (Rue du Ruisselet) at 09:30 Jan. 29 before proceeding to Hotel de la Sous-Prefecture de Reims (Pl. Royale).
Toulouse: Participants will demonstrate in the area of Toulouse-Blagnac Airport (TLS) from 06:30. Organizers indicate they plan to conduct a "total blockage" of the airport.
Heightened security and transport disruptions are likely in cities where protests and strikes take place. Spontaneous demonstrations are possible. Low-level confrontations between protesters and law enforcement officers or frustrated motorists cannot be ruled out. Rallies and go-slow convoy protests may occur in other major urban centers across France.
Avoid all demonstrations as a standard precaution. Check travel conditions before departing and consider altering routes to avoid areas affected by protests. Allow additional time if traveling to or from TLS Jan. 29. Book alternative ground transport in advance. Strictly heed all instructions from law enforcement officers. Immediately depart the area at the first sign of any security disturbance.
