Bolivian coca growers are supporting the construction of a controversial road that crosses the Amazon.<br/> On Thursday - they marched from the eastern Amazon to the capital La Paz.<br/> The government called off construction of the road late last year, after protests from indigenous groups who say the road will destroy their land.<br/> The controversy is a major challenge for leftist President Evo Morales -- who gets much of his support from the indigenous base.<br/> He eventually gave in to pressure by the impoverished groups.<br/> But now coca growers are putting pressure on Morales, saying a new road will bring development.<br/> (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) MARCHER SAYING:<br/> "When there's a road here, our people will be better off. Our community will have health care and education."<br/> However, the calls to have the road built come with a condition.<br/> (SOUNDBITE) (Spanish) SEMU SAYING:<br/> "But when there is a road in the reserve, we don't want people to be subjugated and we don't want people to exploit the reserve."<br/> The previous demonstrations have hurt Morales, who has put the road construction at the heart of his infrastructure programme.<br/> It's a tough call for his government. Critics have said the plan raises questions about his commitment to the environment and to indigenous rights.<br/> Michaela Cabrera, Reuters.
