Madrid Enacts 'Black Level' Alert Due to Holiday Crowds

The capital of Spain has issued heightened measures in an attempt to counteract overcrowding as the year-end festivities approach.

Authorities in Madrid have triggered the "black level" alert due to the substantial influx of individuals causing congestion in both vehicular and pedestrian traffic. The situation is anticipated to worsen as a greater influx of tourists is expected during the Christmas holidays, according to reports from SchengenVisaInfo.com.

Madrid stands as a favored destination for travelers, with almost nine million people visiting the city in 2023. The zenith of visitors was noted in June, with a recorded one million visitors.

Spain, as a whole, has experienced a surge in popularity, particularly this year. The tourist count in October exceeded the previous year by 13.9%, and November saw a notable increase of 9.3% in recorded visits.

Jordi Hereu, Spain’s Minister of Industry and Tourism, commented on the evolving nature of tourism, stating:

"We are transforming the historical nature of our tourism. Spain continues to be a leader; the recovery of the sector is absolute and full, but we are diversifying and de-personalising the flows, which results in more sustainable tourism that’s less dependent on the high summer season."

Apart from Madrid, Seville has also implemented regulations for travelers, focusing on attire and conduct.

The Minister of Tourism emphasized the significance of the tourism sector as a major catalyst for the country's economy. In an Euronews interview, he highlighted the increasing creation of tourism-related jobs, offering employment to millions.

Héctor Gómez, Acting Minister of Industry, Trade, and Tourism, stated:

"Spain continues to create jobs linked to tourism activities and does so in an increasingly robust way and always under the motto of quality, stability, and excellence."

According to Travel Tomorrow, the Spanish government plans to deploy drones for monitoring foot traffic and crowd dynamics in the city. Potential shutdowns of both private and public transport in specific areas, or even the entire locale, may be ordered.

Over 1,200 municipal police and additional agents will be on standby to regulate crowds, allowing people to exit designated areas but restricting entry. Areas expected to be most impacted include Preciados, El Carmen, Plaza del Celenque, Calle Alcala, Plaza de Cibeles, and Gran Via.

Italian and Dutch authorities are also contemplating limitations on travelers, particularly concerning tourist behavior and crowd monitoring.

Source: schengenvisainfo.com