Nicaragua canal protest: Thousands oppose Atlantic-Pacific plan Published duration 14 June 2015

image copyright AFP image caption The demonstrators fear the environmental impact of the canal

Thousands of Nicaraguans have held a protest against the planned construction of a canal linking the Atlantic and Pacific oceans.

The $50bn (£32bn) scheme, being built by a Chinese firm, will be longer, deeper and wider than the Panama Canal.

But the demonstrators fear it will have huge environmental costs and force thousands off their land.

Nicaragua's government says the canal will bring vital investment to one of Central America's poorest countries.

Some among the protesters, who were mostly farmers, accused President Daniel Ortega of selling Nicaragua to the Chinese.

Initial site work began last December, with completion due in five years.

image copyright AP image caption A protester burnt a flag of Nicaragua's ruling party during the rally

image copyright AFP image caption The government says the scheme will give a much-needed economic boost

image copyright EPA image caption Much anger has been aimed at Nicaragua's President, Daniel Ortega

image copyright AFP image caption Unconfirmed figures put the number taking part at 15,000