Hundreds of thousands of people took to the streets across France on Saturday for the third consecutive week of demonstrations against the rising cost of living and a deepening crisis in the country's education system. Police fired tear gas to disperse crowds in major cities, including Paris and Lyon.

According to a report by Al Jazeera, a coalition of student organizations and labor unions claimed that nearly 500,000 people took part in nationwide protests on Saturday, with around 200,000 marching in Paris alone. French authorities, however, estimated national turnout at 320,000, reporting approximately 70,000 demonstrators in the capital.

While the rally in Paris began peacefully, tension escalated as the crowd neared the final destination of the main march. Demonstrators set fire to trash cans and street furniture in several locations, sending plumes of smoke into the sky over the city.

The protests caused widespread disruptions to public transit. RATP, the state-owned public transport operator in Paris, announced on its website that more than 40 metro stations were closed throughout the day.

Al Jazeera reported that police fired heavy volleys of tear gas at demonstrators. The air became so thick with gas that journalists at the scene were forced to move to safer ground due to breathing difficulties.

Riot police used loudspeakers to order protesters to clear the streets, warning of additional tear gas if they failed to comply. Medics were seen evacuating injured individuals, while several demonstrators stood in front of police with their hands raised to indicate a peaceful stance.

On the outskirts of Paris, dozens of individuals wearing black clothing and masks used hammers to break up pavement stones and hurl them at officers. At least one incendiary device was thrown toward security forces. In response, police charged with batons and launched further tear gas.

France's Interior Ministry stated that at least 290 people have been arrested nationwide in connection with Saturday's protests.