Major border crossing blocked over Canadian trucker protests

The Ambassador Bridge between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, Canada.

Canadian truck driver protesters have impeded access to the busiest international crossing in North America.

The demonstrations began January 29 as an objection to a vaccine mandate requiring truckers entering Canada to be fully vaccinated for COVID-19 or face testing and quarantine requirements. Beginning 7 February, the Ambassador Bridge that links Windsor, Ontario, Canada, and Detroit, Michigan, U.S.A., was partially blocked by those participating in the collective action, according to CNN. Canadian-bound traffic was still shut down as of the morning of Tuesday, 8 February, while U.S.-bound traffic was flowing with limited bridge access.

Ottawa Mayor Jim Watson declared a state of emergency on 6 February in response to illegal acts committed by the demonstrations, which he said pose a "serious danger and threat to the safety and security of residents."

However, despite protests in several major Canadian cities over the weekend, no unusual traffic delays were reported Tuesday morning at most Canada Border Services Agency land crossings, according to CNN.

And, two weeks after the mandate was introduced, the number of trucks entering the country from the U.S. was generally in line with typical levels, a Canadian government official said, The Wall Street Journal reported.

More protesters have since joined to rail against mask mandates, lockdowns, restrictions on gatherings, and other efforts to stem the spread of COVID-19. Some have vowed not to leave until certain COVID-19 measures are rescinded,” CNN reported.  

Photo courtesy of Susan Montgomery/Shutterstock

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