Blockade Australia protesters close Sydney Harbour Tunnel, sparking traffic chaos

Sydney’s morning commute descended into chaos after Blockade Australia protesters closed southbound lanes within the Harbour Tunnel, sparking main disruption throughout peak hour.

One lady was arrested after allegedly locking herself to the steering wheel of a automobile and parking it throughout the doorway to the tunnel, which is considered one of solely two methods to cross the harbour.

Police arrested 10 others and mentioned they anticipated to put prices.

The incident sparked visitors chaos, with motorists diverted to the Harbour Bridge.

Whereas the tunnel reopened about 9.15am, motorists are being suggested to keep away from the world.

About 60 protesters additionally marched by means of the CBD, adopted by police, disrupting visitors, banging drums and throwing indicators on roads.

Police have been conscious a protest was deliberate at present and unsuccessfully tried to thwart plans final week.

A driver caught in visitors brought on by the Sydney Harbour Bridge tunnel closure mentioned she would somewhat the local weather protesters averted peak hour.

“I can not get to work on time, that is actually annoying is not it,” she mentioned.

One other driver mentioned he did not thoughts.

“Not a lot you are able to do about it. You have to have a voice I suppose.”

Blockade Australia mentioned it was making an attempt to lift consciousness about local weather change and organisers have warned folks to anticipate extra disruption in coming days.

In March the group disrupted entry to Port Botany for 5 days.

Soon after the NSW government put tougher regulations in place to crack down on unlawful protests which disrupt any public roads, rail traces, tunnels, bridges and industrial estates.

Protesters who achieve this can now be fined $22,000 or jailed for 2 years, or each.

The federal government mentioned it didn’t intend to dam professional group rallies however needed to battle in opposition to “anarchist protesters” who shut down main financial exercise.