A412 motorway construction sparks protests in Chablais

Construction has begun on the A412 motorway in the Chablais region of Haute-Savoie, France. The 16.5-kilometer project, estimated at 340 million euros, is being led by the state and the concessionaire Amadea, a subsidiary of Eiffage.

The project is facing intense opposition from environmental activists, farmers, and local residents. Critics argue the motorway will destroy 180 hectares of land, including 56 hectares of wetlands and 70 hectares of AOC Reblochon agricultural land. Protesters, referred to as ‘écureuils’ (squirrels), have climbed trees to prevent deforestation and protect local biodiversity, including protected species such as beavers, owls, and woodpeckers.

Opponents also claim the road is unnecessary for local mobility, noting that most trips in the area are under 5 km. Legal challenges have been filed by a coalition of environmental associations, dairy cooperatives, and local residents to contest the environmental authorization. Reports have also surfaced regarding alleged unauthorized intrusions onto private land and the destruction of agricultural fences during the early stages of the works.