Ed wants to protest in IJtunnel during public transport strike, but Amsterdam mayor stops him
Amsterdam mayor has denied a request from resident Ed van Leeuwen to hold a protest inside the IJtunnel during a national public transport strike. The city cited significant safety concerns for pedestrians and the need to keep the tunnel accessible for emergency vehicles as reasons for the refusal.
Ed van Leeuwen, a resident of Amsterdam-Noord, intended to lead a protest involving approximately fifty people inside the IJtunnel to highlight accessibility issues caused by a national public transport strike. With ferry operators participating in the strike, the northern part of Amsterdam faces significant travel disruptions, prompting some schools to close. Van Leeuwen hoped the city would allow protesters access to the tunnel, similar to arrangements made for events like the Dam tot Damloop. However, the mayor rejected the request, citing severe safety risks due to high-speed motorized traffic and the tunnel's vital role for emergency services. The municipal authorities have instead advised residents to work from home to mitigate transit challenges. Following the refusal, Van Leeuwen announced he would not organize an alternative protest, noting that he expects a visit from a local police officer to discuss the matter. The city maintains that the tunnel remains unsafe for pedestrians and cyclists during standard traffic operations, despite its occasional use during public events.
Based on reporting by rss. Translated and condensed by LocalHeadlines.
