Tunnel protest

Tunnel protest

SYDNEY — Anti-freeway groups and Greenpeace have urged people to protest at the opening of the Harbour Tunnel by carrying placards during the Rotary Harbour Tunnel fundraising walk on August 30.

Greenpeace transport campaigner Karla Bell said that the government organised a private ribbon-cutting ceremony to open the tunnel for the media on August 29, in an attempt to avoid public protest.

"So we are suggesting people buy tickets ($2 from the Advance Bank), join the walk through the tunnel and carry placards voicing their opposition.

"Politicians are avoiding a public opening because the tunnel is an embarrassment. It already has cracks and leaks. It's a design and safety disaster with inadequate ramps for vehicles that break down."

The Roads and Traffic Authority has hailed the tunnel as the first of a series of freeways to be built or expanded, including the F2, F5 and F6 Glebe Island Bridge. Greenpeace says all this will lead to an increase in congestion of 600% and dramatically increase air pollution and greenhouse emissions.

From GLW issue 66