Guatemala: protests over new plant

The construction of Guatemala’s newest cement plant for Cementos Progreso has led to disturbances and protests that has resulted in several fatalities and casualties, according to The Associated Press.

The main incidents took place at Pajoques, a town about 40km west of the capital, Guatemala City. Local residents supporting the development projects argued with opponents, who say the construction would damage their lands, Interior Minister Mauricio Lopez Bonilla told The Associated Press.

Cementos Progreso is building its new US$720m plant at San Gabriel. Construction work began on the plant in July 2013. It is expected to begin operations in 2017. Farmers from the village are objecting to the construction of both a new highway and a cement factory in the region.