Warsaw removes paving stones as it braces for nationalists' march

On Wednesday, employees of the city road maintenance department were removing paving stones and slabs, trash bins, city bikes, as well as other construction materials from the route of nationalists' march planned on Thursday. Forklifts were loading all the materials onto lorries, while the police were supervising the preparations.

The Mayor of Warsaw Rafał Trzaskowski said at a press conference that day the city was working together with the police in order to prepare the capital for the Independence March. "We've decided to secure all construction materials located at Dmowski Roundabout and other places. We've been on it for a few days now. The materials will be gone by the end of the day," he said.

"It's hard to imagine how materials weighing hundreds of tonnes could pose a safety risk, but we're doing it because the police asked us to," he added.

"Obviously a question remains, whether bins or construction materials jar with patriotism today, and who is going to pay for it all, as the costs aren't small," the mayor said.

Warsaw Police spokesman Sylwester Marczak said on Wednesday he hoped that all those who would take part in the event were motivated only by marking the anniversary of Poland's regaining independence. "But that doesn't mean we are not taking dangers into account," he said.

Asked about guidelines for journalists and reporters, which were described as "fit for someone preparing for war", Marczak said it was important to remind about the said instructions, as the police officers would be following them too.

"Very often we encouter situations in which reporters risk their lives. It's really unnecessary (...). If we're dealing with dangers, it's better not to be there," he stressed.

"It's better to let the police do their work, as we are prepared for decisive action," he added.

The march is to begin at 13:00 at Dmowski Roundabout. The participants will take the "usual path" through Poniatowski Bridge, towards the National Stadium.