Anti-Namakhvani HPP protesters march in downtown Tbilisi

16:31, 24.05.2021

Opponents of Namakhvani HPP construction are marching from Republic Square to Mshrali Khidi (Dry bridge) in central Tbilisi.

Activist Varlam Goletiani said they would once again announce their demands during the march. He called on Tbilisi residents to support the protest.

Massive rally against Namakhvani HPP construction kicked off in Tbilisi on Sunday. Rally organizers said if the government does not halt contact with Turkish company Enka Renewables, including all the documents signed since 2015, they will block Tbilisi streets on Monday, by 12 a.m. Moreover, they demand criminal proceedings against Georgian Economy Minister Natia Turnava and all those who signed the contract.

Protesters set up tents on First Republic Square and pledge to stay there until the government meets their demands.

For the record, the protests against the HPP construction have been underway in western Georgia for almost six months.

Earlier, the Georgian government announced that the HPP construction would be suspended for 9 to 12 months until the environmental, geological, and seismological surveys are reviewed.

Nevertheless, local protesters plan to continue rallies. They believe the HPP would be constructed anyway, which they oppose.

By - Marika Kartozia

Society

Namakhvani HPP

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