Roadblocks and fires disrupt Martinique

A situation report from October 19, 2026, noted that roadblocks and debris fires have been reported in several communes since Sunday evening, causing significant disruption across the region.

Key areas affected in Fort-de-France

In Fort-de-France, the areas of Sainte-Thérèse and Canal Alaric have been particularly affected, with Avenue Maurice-Bishop remaining impassable in some parts and the TCSP route obstructed.

Traffic challenges in Le Lamentin

In Le Lamentin, traffic is difficult on Pelletier and at the Union roundabout, near the Brasserie Lorraine, due to vehicle carcasses, cut palm trees, and objects placed on the road, though passage remains possible in some areas.

Obstruction in Le Robert

In Le Robert, the small Océanis roundabout is blocked by members of the sargasses collective, and significant slowdowns are reported between Le Robert and Le Lamentin, with the BHNS not operating due to road impassability.

Emergency response in several communes

Several roadblocks that appeared during the night in Rivière-Salée, Sainte-Luce, Le Marin, Le Robert, and La Trinité have been extinguished or removed by emergency services and law enforcement, though vehicles have also been set on fire in Le Robert.

Mayor condemns destructions

Mayor Félix Mérine condemned these destructions, stating they are not related to the fight against the high cost of living, emphasizing the need to distinguish the actions of collectives from acts of degradation.

RPPRAC demands and mobilization

The RPPRAC considers the application of the protocol against the high cost of living insufficient and now demands the departure of the prefect and the resignation of the president of the Executive Council of the Martinique Territorial Collectivity as prerequisites for resuming dialogue.

Limited support and participation

The mobilization currently benefits from organized but limited support, with the water user defense collectives and the Robert sargasses collective participating, while the CDMT calls its members to mobilize at their workplaces.

Limited impact on education and commerce

Several colleges and high schools have organized distance learning on a case-by-case basis, and some businesses have closed preventively, though no general shortage of fuel or food products was announced.

Assessment of the movement

The movement is well underway, mainly in the form of scattered roadblocks and traffic disruptions, and October 19 is a first test of the power balance sought by the RPPRAC, with its ability to last depending on its expansion beyond current blockage points.