The protest, organised by the Association for the Protection and Promotion of the Pagasitikos Gulf, drew dozens of civic, scientific and professional groups who say the project would imperil the gulf’s fragile ecosystem, raise the risk of accidents and damage local livelihoods in tourism and fishing. Organisers said the rally aimed to press the government to halt plans for the installation and to heed the region’s widespread objections.
Mr Beos told local media he supports citizens’ concerns but questioned whether the LNG scheme presents a genuine problem. ‘We don’t know why the known and unknown were protesting,’ he said. ‘I came to support the efforts of the citizens and not these scoundrels. Two hundred people do not express the wishes of the Volos people and society. They should understand that they are finished.’
Campaigners rejected the mayor’s characterisation and said their mobilisation reflected broad local opposition. Environmental groups including Greenpeace Greece and WWF Greece have publicly opposed the plan, organisers noted, and municipal councils and regional bodies in surrounding areas have passed resolutions opposing the project.
The dispute centres on whether the benefits claimed by the project’s backers outweigh the environmental and safety risks highlighted by locals and scientific organisations. Protesters say the gulf’s ecological sensitivity and the importance of fishing and tourism mean the proposal should be withdrawn; proponents argue for its strategic or commercial merits.
The debate is likely to continue as local groups press for formal guarantees or for the authorities to abandon the plan.
______________________________________________
Are you seeking news from Greece presented from a progressive, non-mainstream perspective? Subscribe monthly or annually to support TPP International in delivering independent reporting in English. Don’t let Greek progressive voices fade.
Make sure to reference “TPP International” and your order number as the reason for payment.