iJET Daily Intelligence Briefing 


May 21

 

Argentina - Subway and Mass Transit Workers Call for Further Strikes in Buenos Aires

The Association of Subway Workers and Premetro (AGTSyP) will launch a 72-hour strike starting at 1200 May 22. The Transport Workers Union (UTA), which also represents bus and subway drivers, is likely to hold a parallel strike at the same time. The work stoppage will likely paralyze traffic on Buenos Aires' six subway lines, as well as on the Premetro tram. Bus drivers may also participate in the action, leading to further disruptions.

 

iJET Analysis: The UTA originally announced a 24-hour strike May 17, but extended it after talks with the local government failed. This is the latest in a series of strikes by union members to demand salary increases. Earlier labor actions have typically lasted for only several hours, but they have often been timed to coincide with the morning or evening rush hours to maximize impact. Many workers blame current Mayor Mauricio Macri for failing to invest in the city's subway system. Macri supporters, however, claim that the Federal government is responsible for currently problems because it stopped subsidizing the subway security system.

 

India - Congress Party Calls for Statewide Protests in Himachal Pradesh

The opposition Indian National Congress (INC) party in Himachal Pradesh State has announced plans to stage statewide protests May 22. The action is intended to draw attention to alleged corruption in the Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP)-led state government headed by Chief Minister Prem Kumar Dhumal.

 

iJET Analysis: The INC has reportedly submitted a list of grievances to its party high command in the federal capital Delhi, highlighting state government irregularities, especially in power and eco-tourism projects, misuse of federal government funds, violation of the Himachal Pradesh Tenancy and Land Reforms Act and undue favors granted to some officers. The INC's chief will also deliver the charges to Indian President Pratibha Patil. Expect increased security and localized traffic disruptions in all district headquarters, especially in the state capital Shimla, and tourist destinations, including Manali in Kullu district and Dharamshala in Kangra district. Major demonstrations are likely near the Vidhan Sabha (lower house of the state legislature) located between the Mall Road and National Highway-22 in Shimla. Low-level violence is possible, especially if police attempt to disperse protesters.

 

Italy - Magnitude 5.9 Earthquake Strikes Emilia-Romagna Region, Killing Six People

A magnitude 5.9 earthquake rocked the Emilia-Romagna region, 36 km (22 miles) north-northwest of Bologna, at 0403 on May 20. The temblor, which lasted about 20 seconds, struck at a shallow depth of 10 km (6.2 miles). At least six people died, and more than 50 others suffered injuries across the region. Several buildings also partly collapsed.

 

iJET Analysis: Strong aftershocks are possible and could cause buildings that sustained structural damage to collapse. Closely monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

 

Japan - Magnitude 6.0 Earthquake Strikes Near East Coast of Honshu

A magnitude 6.0 earthquake struck off the east coast of Honshu, about 110 km (68 miles) east of Miyako at 1720 May 20, but there was no risk of a tsunami. There were no preliminary reports of damage or injuries.

 

iJET Analysis: Consider vacating multistory buildings as aftershocks are possible. Localized power and utility outages could occur. Closely monitor local media and follow the instructions of local authorities.

 

Nepal - Protests and Strikes Continue Nationwide

Protests and bandhs (shutdown strikes) continue across Nepal, causing widespread and severe commercial and transportation disruptions. Many firms are closed and transport services unavailable, though flight operations are unaffected at Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM) in Kathmandu. The movement of goods from India is reportedly halted. Supporters of the various groups holding the protests are using force to ensure bandh compliance, including vandalizing shops and vehicles. Protesters have clashed with police in many areas; journalists are being increasingly targeted.

 

iJET Analysis: While most violence has so far been relatively low-level, it may be intensifying. Expect more protests and strikes through at least May 27, which is the deadline for the controversial drafting of the nation's new constitution. The events may not be announced in advance; more violence is likely, and protesters may block roads. Police will maintain a heightened presence in major towns and cities, including Kathmandu. Goods and services at firms that remain open may be in short supply or available only at a premium. Supply chain disruptions are very likely. Nepal's Constituent Assembly (the interim parliament) is struggling to finalize a new, post-monarchy constitution while balancing the demands of multiple interest groups. The Supreme Court has ruled that May 27 is the final deadline, and that the Constituent Assembly will become defunct if the date passes with no constitution in place. Should this occur, it is unclear what the next step would be. The primary obstacles to an agreement are the demands of Nepal's more than 100 ethnic groups, many of them pressing for their own states or autonomous regions. The number and boundaries of such states, and the power balance between the states and the federal government, are contentious issues.

 

South Africa - Taxis Resume Service in Durban, Unrest Remains Possible

Taxis in Durban resumed services May 21 after a violent strike that started on May 17. Renewed taxi violence remains possible, however, as authorities view some of the demands made by taxi drivers during negotiations as unrealistic and impractical. City authorities plan to meet with Metro Police management to discuss the demands and formulate a response to the taxi associations. Taxi drivers demand that all traffic tickets be issued in the IsiZulu language, outstanding warrants for arrest of taxi drivers canceled, and that police should not enforce traffic rules during the morning and afternoon peak hours. They also demand that no Indian or white officers should issue traffic tickets, because most Zulu speaking taxi drivers do not speak English or Afrikaans.

 

iJET Analysis: Drivers of minibus taxis are notorious for disobeying traffic rules and dangerous driving. Several incidents of violence occurred during the most recent taxi strike. On May 18 police used tear gas and stun grenades to disperse about 100 taxi drivers who pelted them with stones and on May 19about 50 protesters damaged trash bins and road signs in Besters Taxi Terminal in Phoenix, north of Durban. Police arrested at least 60 people for public violence during the strike. Police will likely reject some of the demands made by taxi associations. As such, taxi violence and strikes may renew later during the week.

 

United States - Tropical Storm Alberto

Tropical Storm Alberto is moving northeast roughly parallel to the South Carolina coast and is forecast to continue to weaken slightly as it passes close to the Outer Banks of North Carolina May 22 before moving out to sea and dissipating. While not expected, a small change in Alberto's path could result in landfall on the North Carolina coast May 21-22.

 

iJET Analysis: Expect rough sea conditions along the Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina coasts, with high winds and heavy rains in South Carolina and North Carolina. Localized flooding is possible. The hardest-hit area will probably be the Outer Banks, though Alberto is a relatively weak storm and the damage will probably not be severe. Flight delays are possible at regional airports, including Charleston International Airport (CHS) and Wilmington International Airport (ILM). Driving conditions may be hazardous, and localized power outages could occur. The storm could disrupt maritime traffic and ports may temporarily close.

 

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May 18

 

Bangladesh - Rail Track Attack Causes Train Derailment Near Ishwardi Station

Assailants removed approximately 6 meters (20 feet) of rail track near Ishwardi early May 17, prompting the derailment of a Joydevpur-bound passenger train near Ishwardi railway station. Authorities said the engine and three passenger carriages derailed around 0500, injuring approximately 15 people. The rail line was shut down until about 1500, when workers were able to complete repairs to the damaged track.

 

iJET Analysis: Though investigations are ongoing, the attack may have been linked to a daylong hartal (general strike) called by the BNP and its allies for May 17. The derailment occurred just after the strike would have begun, and BNP had indicated its intent to disrupt businesses and transport nationwide. However, while many recent BNP-sponsored demonstrations and strikes have led to localized violence, this incident would signify a deliberate escalation in tactics, as it was clearly willing to risk civilian casualties. The BNP has become increasingly frustrated following the disappearance of party secretary M. Elias Ali on April 17 and has vowed retribution against the government, whom it blames for Ali's disappearance.

 

Brazil - Sao Paulo Subway Crash Injures Forty People

At least forty people were injured May 17 in an early morning subway train crash in Sao Paulo, Brazil. The crash occurred on Line 3 between the Vila Carrao and Tatuape stations. The crash occurred above ground, allowing passengers to escape the cars after impact.

 

iJET Analysis: Both trains were traveling at low speeds; for this reason, most people suffered only minor injuries. Approximately one million people travel on Line 3 daily. It is one of the system's most popular lines, traversing the city from east to west.

 

Cote d'Ivoire - Government and Investors Launch New Airline, Air Cote d'Ivoire

On May 15, the national government and investors signed a final agreement for the immediate creation of a new airline company named Air Cote d'Ivoire. The government has a 51 percent share in the new company, with 35 percent controlled by Air France and 14 percent by the Aga Khan Group.

 

iJET Analysis: President Alassane Ouattara's government is looking for ways to boost the country's image in the hopes of possibly regaining its status as a West Africa business hub after years of economic turmoil and mismanagement by former governments. The country has succeeded in attracting more investment since the end of the post-election crisis in April 2011. Officials in Abidjan said the new airline will acquire more planes and will improve its services, providing excellent comfort to travelers. The new company will likely play a major role in West Africa, including increasing the number of flights across the African continent. The former airline company, Air Ivoire, went through some financial difficulties, and its four planes - three Boeing 737-500 and one Airbus A321 - are no longer in service due to operating costs and accumulated debts.

 

Germany - 'Blockupy' to Stage Mass Protest in Frankfurt

Anti-austerity activists and protesters supporting the 'Occupy' and 'Blockupy' movements are planning a mass protest action on May 19. The event will begin at 1200 on Baseler Platz, by the main train station, and will proceed to Willy-Brandt-Platz. The government has banned all other 'Blockupy'-organized events originally slated to occur May 16-19. The Willy-Brandt-Platz metro station (U-Bahn) and Taunusanlage regional train (S-Bahn) station will remain closed until May 20. Bus lines in the financial district are suspended, and many streets will be closed to vehicles until May 20 as well.

 

iJET Analysis: District and regional courts have upheld the ban on all other planned actions by Blockupy Frankfurt. Security authorities cite violent clashes during organized actions on March 31 as cause for the ban; police arrested 465 people after anarchists clashed with authorities. Police authorities peacefully disbanded the Occupy camp at Willy-Brandt-Platz early May 16. Protesters may defy the ban on other events; spontaneous protests are possible.

 

Namibia - Airport Workers Reschedule Nationwide Strike

Airport workers from the Namibia Transport and Allied Workers' Union (NATAU) have delayed a nationwide strike to May 21. The labor action, originally planned for May 15, has been suspended pending the outcome of a hearing at the Labour Commission. The union has organized the strike to protest the Namibia Airports Company's (NAC) economic restructuring plan, which laid off the entire workforce in March. Workers were later re-hired with fewer benefits and substandard working conditions.

 

iJET Analysis: Protests at airports nationwide are likely should the strike proceed. Violence is also possible. Although it is unclear how many members plan to participate, the strike could affect operations at the following locations: Hosea Kutako International Airport (WDH), Windhoek; Eros Airport (ERS), Windhoek; Walvis Bay Airport (WVB); Luderitz Airport (LUD); Keetmanshoop Airport (KMP); Ondangwa Airport (OND); Rundu Airport (NDU); and Katima Mulilo Airport (MPA). The strike could severely disrupt air transportation in Namibia. Most airports are small and cannot handle large aircraft. Hosea Kutako International Airport, east of the capital of Windhoek, is the only international airport in the country.

 

South Africa - Violence Erupts During Taxi Driver Protest in Durban

Violence erupted in Durban (eThekwini Municipality) on May 17 during a march organized by taxi drivers to protest police intimidation. Chaos ensued in the inner city, and localized protests by taxi drivers subsequently occurred in several areas; significant disruptions to evening rush hour commuter traffic in parts of the city and its suburbs followed the protests. Earlier on May 17, taxi drivers marched from the Botanical Gardens to City Hall to complain about police harassment. The march got out of control, necessitating that Metro Police send reinforcements to the area. The protesters dispersed but gathered to rally elsewhere by late afternoon.

 

iJET Analysis: Unlike in other main cities in South Africa, unrest involving taxi drivers normally lasts for several days in Durban. More violence is likely, and taxi drivers could strike on May 18. Commuters should prepare for delays and use alternate forms of transport on May 18 due to the potential for ongoing protests and the possibility of a full-scale taxi strike in the metropolitan area. Monitor local media for updated security and traffic information.

 

South Korea - Last-Minute Deal Averts Bus Driver Strike in Seoul

Bus drivers in Seoul canceled a planned strike May 18 after reaching a last-minute deal with management over a salary increase. Authorities report that buses are running according to schedule.

 

iJET Analysis: Management agreed to provide the drivers with a 3.5 percent salary increase. Had the strike gone ahead, it would have paralyzed bus services in the city, as more than 90 percent of drivers agreed to support the walkout.

 

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May 17

 

Bangladesh - BNP-Led Alliance to Stage Dawn-to-Dusk Strike May 17

The opposition Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP)-led 18-party alliance will stage a dawn-to-dusk hartal (general strike) across the country May 17. The strike will likely halt commercial activity and mass transit across the country. Large demonstrations will probably occur in major cities and towns, including Dhaka, Chittagong, Sylhet, Sirajganj, Pabna, Joypurhat, Dinajpur, and Bogra. Violent clashes with security forces are likely, especially in Dhaka, where security forces have already cordoned the BNP headquarters in Naya Paltan. Protesters may also block highways and major roads, heightening traffic congestion.

 

iJET Analysis: The strike is the latest in weeks of actions organized by the BNP and its supporters following the April 17 disappearance of BNP Organizing Secretary of Sylhet Division M. Elias Ali. While most previous actions have focused on demanding Ali's safe return, the May 17 strike was called to protest the Dhaka court's sentencing of 33 opposition leaders to jail, in connection with the arson of a vehicle near the prime minister's office in Dhaka during an April 29 hartal. The BNP will likely continue organizing disruptive, and often violent, actions until the opposition members are freed, and Ali's fate is determined.

 

India - Air India Implements Contingency Plan as Pilot Strike Continues

Air India (AI) implemented a new contingency plan May 16 that allows the airline to avert cancellation of many European and North American-bound flights. Approximately 300 pilots have engaged in an unofficial strike since May 7, despite an order from the Delhi High Court to return to work. The strike has prompted the cancellation of dozens of flights, especially on long-haul international routes. Air India said only one such flight was canceled May 16 and operations are forecast to stabilize in the coming days.

Air India (AI) has halted booking for long-haul international flights to North America and Europe until at least May 17, but said that booking may resume shortly under the new contingency plan. Meanwhile, the pilots have asked the government to initiate preliminary talks, though this is unlikely to lead to significant progress in the near future. Air India has derecognized the pilots' union, the Indian Pilots Guild, and has fired 71 pilots in response to the walkout. The pilots have vowed to continue the action until the fired workers are rehired, and management negotiates a solution with them over an ongoing training dispute.

 

Mexico - Students Reject Agreement to End Protests

On May 16, the main group of protesting students in Michoacan rejected an agreement between the state government and imprisoned students to end their occupation of university buildings and blockading of roads. The students are now demanding the resignation of the university rector, Salvador Jara.

 

iJET Analysis: The state government is losing patience with the students that continue protesting, especially following the deal to release a previous group of violent protesters from prison. The federal government is urging a careful reaction by authorities to avoid provoking student groups outside the state.

 

Pakistan - Protesters Storm Punjab Civil Secretariat

On May 16, thousands of contract workers employed by the Population Welfare and Family Planning Department stormed the Punjab Civil Secretariat complex in Lahore to protest the government's failure to address their grievances. Demonstrators arrived at Nasir Bagh at about 0900 before marching to the Secretariat complex off Lower Mall Road at about 1100. Protesters gained entry after tearing down a gate and then vandalized parts of the complex and several vehicles. They then held a sit-in at the site until 1530, when police used batons to force them to leave. Authorities arrested at least 200 people; an undisclosed number of demonstrators suffered injuries. Several senior police officials have been suspended for failing to control the protesters.

 

iJET Analysis: More unrest is likely in the near term. The All Pakistan Clerks Association, which organized the May 16 protest, has threatened to "seal off" government offices throughout Punjab Province through May 19 to protest perceived police abuses. The demonstrators were rallying against government plans to merge the Population Welfare and Family Planning Department with the Health Department. They were also demanding pay increases and permanent jobs for contract workers.

 

South Korea - Bus Drivers Prepared to Strike in Seoul

Talks between union officials and bus company representatives ended early May 17 without an agreement to prevent a strike by unionized drivers on May 18. Earlier in the week, more than 90 percent of drivers agreed to support the walkout if the city's bus operators failed to increase wages. A last-minute deal to avert a work stoppage is possible since union officials have agreed to continue negotiating until the strike deadline at 0400 May 18.

 

iJET Analysis: The work stoppage would effectively shut down bus service across Seoul since 98 percent of the city's bus drivers belong to the union. The government is preparing contingency plans, including putting more subway trains into operation, extending subway hours, and using charter buses to transport passengers between subway stations and major bus stops. Increased employee absenteeism is nonetheless possible. Expect unusually large crowds on the subway system, especially during the morning and evening rush hours. Bus drivers are demanding a 9.5-percent pay hike after the implementation of higher fares in February; representatives of the Seoul Metropolitan Bus Operator Association Management insist that they must maintain a wage freeze because transport companies cannot afford salary increases.

 

United States - NATO Summit to Take Place May 20-21 in Chicago

The 2012 NATO Summit will be held in Chicago, Ill., May 20-21. Leaders from more than 50 nations are projected to attend, as well as representatives from the EU and UN. The event will take place at McCormick Place on S. Indiana Avenue and is closed to the public. Security will be elevated in the area, and traffic disruptions are highly likely due to protests and occasional road closures for motorcades. Other tentative event sites include Soldier Field and Gary Comer Youth Center, Symphony Center, Field Museum, and Navy Pier.

Security Surrounding the Event
The US Department of Homeland Security has declared the NATO Summit a National Special Security Event (NSSE). Due to the increased security in downtown Chicago, authorities may ask to see personal identification.

There will be two main restricted zones during the Summit:

  • McCormick Place and surrounding areas: Local police and secret service officials will establish a security perimeter around McCormick Place, which will be completely closed to the public. Officials have not disclosed the exact location of the perimeter. However, authorities say nearby residents and businesses will be able to reach their buildings and have individually contacted any building residents that will face restricted entry. Individual road closures are outlined in the maps below.
  • Northern Museum Campus and surrounding areas: There will be a security perimeter surrounding Willis Tower, located on the corner of W. Jackson Boulevard and S. Franklin Street, as well as around the Northern Museum Campus beginning late May 19. Individual road closures are outlined below.

Hotels hosting delegates will have heightened security. These hotels include, but are not limited to, the Fairmont Chicago (200 North Columbus Dr.), the Park Hyatt Chicago (800 North Michigan Ave.), the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel (221 North Columbus Dr.), the Renaissance Blackstone Chicago (636 South Michigan Ave.), and the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers (301 North Water St.).

Hotels hosting delegates will have heightened security. These hotels include, but are not limited to, the Fairmont Chicago (200 North Columbus Dr.), the Park Hyatt Chicago (800 North Michigan Ave.), the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel (221 North Columbus Dr.), the Renaissance Blackstone Chicago (636 South Michigan Ave.), and the Sheraton Chicago Hotel & Towers (301 North Water St.).

The Federal Aviation Administration will impose a temporary flight restriction May 19-21, though the exact location and times have not been determined. Regularly scheduled commercial passenger flights will be authorized to enter the airspace, though flight delays may occur due to the high volume of air traffic and heightened security. Pilots should monitor Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) for changes and updates to the temporary flight restriction.

Waterways will also be under heightened security from US Coast Guard personnel. Restrictions will be in place from 0800 May 18-0800 May 22. Concerned maritime traffic may contact the Coast Guard Captain of the Port Representative via VHF-FM Channel 16.

Some businesses may close during the event to avoid disruptions. Postal service delivery may experience disruptions in zip codes 60601-60605, 60606, 60607, 60610, 60611, 60616, 60654, and 60661.

Transportation Delays
Intermittent transportation delays are likely May 19-21 as authorities impose heightened restrictions. Additional restrictions and road closures may occur unannounced as the security situation requires.

Air Travel Delays
Airport delays are possible at Chicago's Midway International Airport (MDW) and Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) as delegates and participants arrive and depart. Increased security is likely, and additional time may be needed for security screening, baggage claims, and customs processing.

Due to the high volume of travelers May 19-22, transportation to and from airports will be in high demand. Consequently, ground transportation may take longer than anticipated.

Road Travel Delays
Parking restrictions will begin May 13. Road closures and restricted pedestrian traffic will begin 0001 May 19; officials assured travelers that all restrictions will be lifted in time for evening rush hour May 21.

In addition to the road closures in the graphics below, there will be intermittent traffic delays and temporary closures on interstates and throughout the downtown area to allow motorcades to travel to and from McCormick Place and other event sites. The major roadways affected by these intermittent closures include:

  • I-90 East & West (Kennedy Expressway) between O'Hare International Airport and downtown
  • Ohio Street from I-90/94 to Fairbanks Court/Columbus Drive
  • Ontario Street from Fairbanks Court/Columbus Drive to I-90/94
  • I-90/94 East and West between downtown and I-55
  • Roosevelt Road, 18th Street, and Canalport Avenue access from I-94 West (Dan Ryan Expressway outbound)

Additionally, US President Obama's re-election campaign headquarters is located at One Prudential Plaza on Randolph Street, and increased security and traffic disruptions in the area may occur if the president visits the headquarters. Some road closures will also occur near Willis Tower (233 South Wacker Dr.).

Public Transportation Delays
Rail service will probably operate normally. However, the McCormick Place stops will be closed May 20-21. Delays and detours are possible on bus lines, including those with routes near McCormick Place, particularly lines 1, 3, 4, and 21. Security services may establish screenings or checkpoints at rail and bus stations.

Protests and Marches
Various groups, including Occupy Chicago, Coalition against NATO/G8 (CANG8), and ANSWER Coalition are planning to protest in Chicago in the week leading up to and during the summit. Officials have granted permits for events from May 18-20; however, spontaneous protests might also occur. The G8 Summit was previously scheduled to be held in conjunction with the NATO Summit, but has been moved to Camp David May 18-19. Consequently, protests may be smaller than originally expected. Protesters' routes and assembly places will be restricted based on the event security perimeter.

Occupy Chicago is planning a week of action May 12-21 with various demonstrations and events around the city. The Trinity Episcopal Church (125 E 26th St.) will allow protesters to camp on its lawn.

Calls to action include, but are not limited to the following:

May 18: Occupy Chicago and National Nurses United will hold a rally at 1200 in Daley Plaza.
May 20: Iraq Veterans against The War plan to meet at 1000 at Petrillo Music Shell in Grant Park. Occupy Chicago and CANG8 activists will join at 1200; the activists will then begin their march at 1400 to McCormick Place via Jackson Boulevard, State Street, Harrison Street, Michigan Avenue, Cermak Road, and Indiana Avenue.
May 20: Occupy Chicago and CANG8 will rally at 0900 at Petrillo Band Shell, Grant Park; they will march to McCormick Place at 1400 via Jackson Boulevard, State Street, Harrison Street, Michigan Avenue, Cermak Road, and Indiana Avenue.
May 21: Occupy Chicago protesters plan to shut down Boeing headquarters. They are meeting at 400 S LaSalle; Boeing headquarters are located at 100 N Riverside Plaza. Action details are unconfirmed.