The Catalan government has now relocated 153 people from the former B9 school in Badalona, following a controversial police eviction on 17 December. So the total number of people rehoused continues to climb.
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But around 50 individuals remain living in makeshift shelters under the nearby C-31 motorway bridge.
Badalona Squat Relocation: Key Details
Badalona Squat Relocation: A Race Against Time and Weather The relocation effort has been a major logistical challenge. The old school building had sheltered around 400 people at its peak.
Authorities initially registered 150 of the most vulnerable individuals after the eviction. The government and social entities relocated 83 people in the first week.
“We have activated all possible measures,” said Minister Martínez Bravo. She explained they have offered places “where we could, some outside [the city]”.
This emergency response is just a temporary fix.
Structural Solutions Needed for Enduring Crisis The Badalona squat relocation highlights a much wider issue. “There are thousands of people without a home in Catalonia,” Martínez Bravo stated. However, “It’s the rawest face of the housing crisis.
She admitted the situation is complicated. The approach to homelessness needs long-term planning.
Meanwhile, volunteers continue to bring food and warm clothing to those still camped under the bridge. The minister hasn’t ruled out that some people may still be sleeping rough by New Year’s Day.
Call for Cooperation and Reflection Martínez Bravo confirmed she has been in contact with Badalona’s mayor, Xavier García Albiol. She has asked him to “return to the table and assume responsibilities for the evicted people”.
“I am optimistic,” the minister said. “I see a change in attitude.” She also called for a joint reflection on what happened in Badalona. However, her message was clear for those who incite hate speech.
The relocation work is being done alongside social entities and other administrations, including Badalona City Council. Martínez Bravo denied these organisations have been left “alone” to assist people.
Overall, the Badalona squat relocation is a stark reminder of Catalonia’s profound housing emergency. The government’s emergency device provides a stopgap.
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