On 10 April two large-scale protests will occur in the capital Paris. Anti-fascist groups planned a demonstration at Chateau d’Eau metro at 14:00 local time. Such protest aims to denounce the increased threat by the far-right. The second protest will occur at Place Joachim du Bellay at 14:00 local time to denounce perceived infringements on civil rights due to COVID-19 health regulations. Clashes with police are likely.
On 7 April, at least 14 people were injured when protesters clashed with police at the site of a political rally for the far-right political party Vox. Reports suggest that left-wing counter-protesters threw projectiles at security personnel, who used batons to control the crowd. At least 2 arrests have been made. More political rallies are likely to be staged in preparation for the 4 May regional elections. Further clashes may be possible.
Anticipate student protests in the coming days in Durban. On 7 April, students protested outside of the Durban University of Technology campuses. Protests were over the university’s online registration process. Police allegedly used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse crowds. Reports indicate some students were arrested. Road closures are likely as well.
On 7 April, a demonstration is being organized by multiple civic groups at the Berlin Brandenburg Airport in Terminal 5 at 18:00 local time. The participants are gathering to denounce the government’s mass deportation of Afghan asylum seekers back to Afghanistan.
Starting on 6 April the Asturias Airport (OVD) will be temporarily closed for 48-hours on multiple days for runway repairs. Asturias Airport will be closed 6-7 April, 13-14 April, 20-21 April, 27-28 April, and 4-5 May. Expect flight cancelations and date or boarding destination changes for flights scheduled for these dates.
The discovery of a suspicious package has led to the evacuation of multiple railway stations in Lille, France on 6 April. Lille-Flandres and Lille-Europe railway stations were closed, as well as surrounding road as authorities disposed of the package safely. Railways are now opening gradually but may become congested.
On 5 April a 6.0 magnitude earthquake struck New Zealand’s North Island at 19:37 local time. Strong to moderate shaking occurred in the Bay of Plenty and Gisborne, and weak to light shaking occurred near North Island and northern South Island. There have been no reported casualties or damage yet. Travel disruptions may occur for damage assessments. Light aftershocks are likely within the coming days.
On 7 April, customs workers are staging a 24-hour nationwide strike to demand better working conditions, additional staff, and priority for COVID-19 vaccinations. The demonstrations are being organized by the General Union of Public Services, who has also threatened to stage similar strikes weekly until demands are met.
On 2 April, a Taroko Express passenger train headed to Taitung from New Taipei and Shulin derailed in Hualien County. The derailment took place in the Daquingshui tunnel, killing over 30 people and injuring dozens among the 350 passengers believed to be on board. First responders are in the area and Taiwan Railways may face delays.
As of 31 March, northern Thailand has reported a severely high level of air pollution. It is predicted these levels will last into at least mid-April. Readings of airborne particulate matter are above 150 in the region. Readings above 150 are considered unhealthy for general populations. The pollution has been predicted to be a result of farmers starting fires to burn undergrowth.
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