Taxi Mobilization Across France: Major Disruptions Expected
Taxi unions across France have organized significant mobilizations set to begin early Monday morning, particularly in Lyon and Marseille. These protests are in response to a controversial agreement currently under negotiation with Health Insurance regarding the transport of seated patients. The agreement, which could be finalized in December, proposes a reduction in transport prices and mandates that patients share taxis or light medical vehicles (VSL) with others, potentially leading to detours of up to 10 kilometers per passenger. This has raised concerns among taxi drivers about the quality of service and patient care.
In Lyon, the situation is expected to be particularly intense, with estimates of 2,000 to 3,000 taxis converging on the city. Blockades are planned at key motorway entrances, including the A7 and A43, which will likely cause significant traffic disruptions. The Rhône prefecture has advised motorists to avoid travel in the area and consider public transport alternatives. Additionally, taxi drivers are planning to camp at Place Bellecour, coinciding with the upcoming Festival of Lights, which is expected to draw millions of visitors to the city.
Protests and Blockades in Major Cities
The mobilization is not limited to Lyon; nearly a thousand taxis are expected to participate in similar slow-moving protests in Marseille, with significant slowdowns anticipated on major routes. Taxi unions are urging drivers from across France to join the demonstrations, emphasizing the potential impact on patient transport services if the new agreement is implemented. The protests are also set to extend to other regions, including Nouvelle-Aquitaine, where around fifty taxi drivers are planning actions in Deux-Sèvres.
In Paris, a separate rally is scheduled for Tuesday morning in front of the National Assembly, where more than 2,000 taxis are expected to gather. The National Taxi Federation has called for this static rally to further voice their concerns regarding the proposed changes to medical transport agreements.
Government Response and Future Implications
The prefecture has issued warnings against any actions that would obstruct access to hospitals, emphasizing that no lasting blockages will be tolerated. The police are expected to be heavily deployed to ensure safety and maintain traffic flow. The ongoing protests highlight the tensions between taxi drivers and government regulations, particularly concerning medical transport, which is a vital service for many patients. As the situation develops, the impact on traffic and patient care in the affected regions remains a critical concern.
