Three thousand people were marching in downtown streets trying to reach the Chilean government house, Palacio de la Moneda, rallying against the approval of two thermo-electric plants in Punta de Choros, Coquimbo, by Suez Energy Co.
People with banners saying: "SAVE PUNTA DE CHOROS", reached the front of government palace and were repelled by police forces. 25 men and 12 women were arrested and later released. All protesters disapproved of the police action, saying it was a peaceful march with no provocation.
The march was organized by NGO ChaoPescao (www.chaopescao.cl) and thousand of people were organized themselves by social networks as twitter and facebook, and gathered around for marching peacefully yesterday afternoon.
There were other rallies in Antofagasta, La Serena, Melipilla, Concepción, Temuco, Valparaíso cities.
Punta de Choros is a protected area of Humbold pinguins and marine species. Well known for whales viewings. Community lives from tourism mainly related to people who visit the area to appreciate its special flora and fauna.
Unfortunatelly, the Environmental Regional Comission (COREMA) from Coquimbo, approbed the proyect in Punta Choros.
