Chileans clash over dam project

There have been violent clashes in Chile between the police and environmentalists opposed to plans to build five new dams in Patagonia.

Regulators have given the go-ahead for the project, aimed at providing hydro-electric power, but critics say it will destroy swathes of land and threaten endangered species.

As the decision was announced, hundreds of activists fought street battles with police in the city of Coihaique in Patagonia.

The project still needs the final approval from government ministers.

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