Blockade Australia protesters close Sydney Harbour Tunnel, sparking traffic chaos

27/06/2022

(See translation in Arabic section)

Sydney's morning commute descended into chaos after Blockade Australia protesters closed southbound lanes in the Harbour Tunnel, sparking major disruption during peak hour.

One woman was arrested after allegedly locking herself to the steering wheel of a car and parking it across the entrance to the tunnel, which is one of only two ways to cross the harbour.

Police arrested 10 others and said they expected to lay charges.

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

While the tunnel reopened about 9.15am, motorists are being advised to avoid the area.

About 60 protesters also marched through the CBD, followed by police, disrupting traffic, banging drums and throwing signs on roads.

Police were aware a protest was planned today and unsuccessfully tried to thwart plans last week.

A driver stuck in traffic caused by the Sydney Harbour Bridge tunnel closure said she would rather the climate protesters avoided peak hour.

"I can't get to work on time, that's really annoying isn't it," she said.

Another driver said he didn't mind.

"Not much you can do about it. You've got to have a voice I suppose."

Blockade Australia said it was trying to raise awareness about climate change and organisers have warned people to expect more disruption in coming days.

In March the group disrupted access to Port Botany for five days.

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

Protesters who do so can now be fined $22,000 or jailed for two years, or both.

The government said it did not intend to block legitimate community rallies but had to fight against "anarchist protesters" who shut down major economic activity.