Nicaragua canal protest: Thousands oppose Atlantic-Pacific plan

Protesters in Nicaragua against a planned canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans
The demonstrators fear the environmental impact of the canal
Thousands of Nicaraguans have held a protest against the planned construction of a canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.
The $50bn (£32bn) scheme, being built by a Chinese firm, will be longer, deeper and wider than the Panama Canal.
But the demonstrators fear it will have huge environmental costs and force thousands off their land.
Nicaragua's government says the canal will bring vital investment to one of Central America's poorest countries.
Some among the protesters, who were mostly farmers, accused President Daniel Ortega of selling Nicaragua to the Chinese.
Initial site work began last December, with completion due in five years.
A protester burns a flag of Nicaragua's ruling party during a rally against a planned canal
A protester burnt a flag of Nicaragua's ruling party during the rally
A man sprays graffiti on a vehicle during a demo against a planned canal in Nicaragua
The government says the scheme will give a much-needed economic boost
A man sprays graffiti on a mural during a demo against a planned canal in Nicaragua
Much anger has been aimed at Nicaragua's President, Daniel Ortega
Protesters in Nicaragua against a planned canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans
Unconfirmed figures put the number taking part at 15,000
Map of Nicaragua and Panama

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