Dozens protest against hydroelectric power plant in western Slovakia

On Sunday, several dozen people came to protest against the construction of a hydroelectric power plant in Eliasovce (Trnava region, western Slovakia) and demanded the preservation of the Small Danube River in Jelka, in the same region. The activists organised a protest that involved sailing down the Small Danube River as well as a River Jump activity. "By jumping into the river, we're pointing to environmental problems facing our rivers and the violation of European regulations on water. We'd like to preserve one of the most beautiful Slovak low-plain rivers for future generations", said one of the protest organisers Samuel Martis. The purpose of the event was to draw attention to a rising number of hydroelectric power plants on the Small Danube River and to protest against the construction of another power plant in Eliasovce. A private firm has been preparing the power plant project since 2009. Local fishermen and hunters have also spoken against the investment, claiming that it will have an adverse environmental impact and endanger a number of rare animal species.