On Saturday August 8th, I took part in a protest against the attempt to construct a private residence in close proximity to the Kfardebiane natural bridge. An extremely rare natural occurance, this land bridge (a product of hundreds of thousands of years of unique geological conditions) is massive in scale (52m long and 58m in height) and a breathtaking sight. It lies, unfortunately close to a private plot of land. Environmental groups and NGO’s have fought for its preservation for the past 15 years. Despite decrees by the government declaring it a national preserve the landowner continuously attempts to bypass and contest these laws. The planned construction would definitely threaten the structural integrity of the bridge.
The Kfardebiane natural bridge seen from the west
If you look right above the bridge and to the left you can make out the stone wall that the owner has already built.
Protestors' banner reads: DON'T TOUCH THE NATURAL STONE BRIDGE
It was heartening to see such a strong turnout: celebrities (including Maxime Chaaya, the first Lebanese to climb Everest), politicians, environmental groups, youth organizations, eco-tour operators and substantial media coverage. The bridge is one of the prominent landmarks on the LMT.
For more photos: http://www.flickr.com/photos/hagopkazazian/2270312312/
