Tensions flared Sunday in the village of Platykampos near Larissa, in central Greece, hours before farmers were due to assemble a major protest blockade in nearby Nikaia.

Farmers traveling by tractor toward the site attempted to enter the national highway but were stopped by a heavy riot police presence. The road had been fully closed by a police van positioned across the lanes, prompting heated exchanges as farmers demanded its removal.

The situation escalated when police deployed tear gas to push back farmers attempting to widen the blockade, state broadcaster ERT reported.

In a separate action, farmers from the neighboring Karditsa region managed to reach the E65 highway despite police efforts to contain the demonstrations. Farmers say they are prepared to intensify their campaign over rising production costs, delayed compensation payments and problems involving the state agricultural payments agency, OPEKEPE.

Police imposed temporary traffic restrictions on the old Larissa-Athens highway at midday, diverting vehicles to alternate routes to ease congestion.

Source: Εkathimerini.com