In a stench-filled protest against the government's agricultural policies, disgruntled French farmers dumped heaps of manure and rotting produce in front of city buildings in Toulouse. The farmers, numbering around 1,000 from across southwest France, claim that the policies are causing them increased difficulties.
Starting their rally before sunrise, nearly 400 tractors, laden with hay and manure, journeyed towards Toulouse, causing significant traffic disruption. The local police chief had to reroute bus services and advised residents to steer clear of central Toulouse.
Upon reaching the regional authority building, the farmers unloaded trailer-loads of decaying fruit, hay, and manure. Approximately 1,000 farmers congregated on foot at the central square, with a delegation scheduled to meet the local police chief later in the day.
The farmers' grievances stem from increased taxes and social charges, which they say are exacerbating their hardships. These financial pressures are in addition to rising costs for fuel and animal feed, and a general increase in the cost of living across France.
Source: cbsnews.com