Barcelona’s Ombudsman has demanded the City Council prevent the annual motorised Santa Claus parade for the fourth consecutive year.
The call comes ahead of the ‘Papanoelada Motera’ event scheduled for 21 December, which the watchdog argues causes severe environmental and mobility disruption.
Environmental And Mobility Concerns Mount
The Sindicatura de Greuges, the city’s official complaints body, insists the event generates a “great environmental and mobility impact.” Furthermore, it warns of risks to public health and safety due to potential driving “imprudence.” The planned route includes some of Barcelona’s busiest thoroughfares, such as Plaça Catalunya, Passeig de Gràcia, and Via Laietana.
Consequently, the Ombudsman has sent a formal request for information to the council.
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The request asks whether organisers have obtained the necessary licence, which they allegedly failed to do for previous editions. Additionally, it questions what measures will be taken to guarantee the city’s normal functioning during the busy pre-Christmas period.
The watchdog highlights that the affected districts, particularly Eixample and Ciutat Vella, already suffer from elevated levels of atmospheric pollutant NO2. Therefore, holding a large motorised event contradicts global consensus on reducing greenhouse gas emissions amid a climate crisis.
Noise Pollution And Previous Penalties
Noise pollution presents another major grievance. The Ombudsman reports the slow-moving motorcycle parade creates peaks of 85 decibels. This figure significantly exceeds the municipal limit of 70 decibels and the World Health Organization’s recommended maximum of 55 decibels for community noise.
The body also points to precedent. Last year, the local police, the Guardia Urbana, issued 173 fines to participants for infractions like forcing gears or driving in bus lanes. The event reportedly attracted around 2,000 motorists. The Ombudsman has now asked the council to consider launching a police investigation into this year’s planned gathering.
Ultimately, the institution concludes the city must “prioritise people’s right to live in a healthy, sustainable environment respectful of health.” This stance reflects ongoing tensions in Barcelona between large-scale events and urban mobility goals. The council’s response will be closely watched, especially as the city continues to address broader road safety and traffic challenges.
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