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A convoy of more than 100 semi-trucks is Ottawa-bound to protest stalled pipeline projects and Ottawa police are warning commuters to be ready for traffic chaos next Tuesday and Wednesday.

The United We Roll! convoy left Red Deer, Alta., on Thursday morning on its 4,000-kilometre journey to the capital. The drivers are upset about the stalled Trans Mountain pipeline expansion, as well as federal bills C-69, which overhauls Canada’s environmental assessment laws, and C-48, which regulates oil tanker traffic on the West Coast. The protesters say the bills will hurt Canada’s energy sector and harm the Canadian economy.

Ottawa police expect the trucks to converge on Parliament Hill from the east and west and from Gatineau.

“Wellington Street between Kent Street and Elgin Street will be closed to regular traffic from 8 a.m. until as late as after the afternoon rush hour both days,” police said in a statement.

“Commuters should expect delays as alternate routes will be heavier than usual. Avoid travelling by car into the downtown core. Consider walking, biking or telecommuting, if you can. If you are travelling downtown, allow for additional travel time,” the statement said.

OC Transpo and Para Transpo are also expecting delays in the downtown core because of the protest.


Source: Ottawa Sun