Streets in Madrid are facing a shutdown due to overcrowding during the festive season, following newly implemented measures amidst a ‘black level’ alert.
The measures seek to manage security and mobility in the city and are only implemented when there is exceptional traffic in public spaces and on transport. They will result in the closure of specific streets and areas, allowing pedestrians to leave but not enter.
The restricted areas include Preciados and El Carmen Street, the Plaza del Celenque, a section of Calle Alcalá near the Plaza de Cibeles, and the Gran Vía.
Police will monitor the congested streets using drones. About 450 municipal police and 850 additional agents will monitor the city on busy days during the rest of the festive season. The restrictions will also affect public and private transport.
Spain has seen significant increases in its tourist numbers. In October this year, traditionally an off-season month, 8,17 million international tourists visited the country, 13,9% more than in October 2022. November 2023 saw 3,3 million foreign tourists enter the country, an increase of 9,3% over the same month the previous year.
“We are transforming the historical nature of our tourism,” says Jordi Hereu, Spain’s Minister of Industry and Tourism.
“Spain continues to be a leader; the recovery of the sector is absolute and full, but we are diversifying and de-seasonalising the flows, which results in a more sustainable tourism that’s less dependent on the high summer season.”
