Christmas markets can no longer be planned without worry. Since attacks like the one in Magdeburg, the problem is not just about concessions to market suppliers and a sufficient number of toilets – support poles now also have to be installed and complex security concepts have to be drawn up.
In Göttingen, some streets in the old town are completely closed to traffic during market hours. There is an increased security concept, as announced by the city government. Bus services were also affected. “This makes Christmas markets safer and less stressful for everyone,” a spokesperson said. The decision was a reaction to the shooting at the Magdeburg Christmas market last year.
The security zone will be established from November 24 to December 29. Additional shuttle services operate to several downtown stops Monday through Saturday.
Bremen invested an additional three million euros
The bollards and vehicle barriers around the city’s Christmas stands and on the tram lines are intended to provide protection in Bremen. The Senate has provided an additional three million euros for this. It is also intended to regulate video surveillance, according to domestic authorities. The security situation remains dynamic, although currently there are no findings or indications that could pose a particular threat.
These measures were tightened last year. Civilians will once again move along with uniformed foot patrols. That POLICE will be on site with police containers. “Of course we also know: There can never be ultimate security,” he said.
As with other similar events, there are extensive precautions, security concepts and close coordination with police in Hanover, as announced by the state capital. “Of course, extensive steps are being taken to make Christmas markets a safe celebration for everyone,” a spokesperson said.
There is no acute threat situation – but the concept is adjusted
In order to react flexibly to various dangerous situations, an extensive concept was also developed in Braunschweig. Coordination was carried out between the city government, the fire brigade, the organizer Braunschweig Stadtmarketing GmbH and the police.
A central element of the security concept in Lüneburg is the increased use of mobile concrete barriers, strategically placed to slow traffic and protect sensitive areas. In addition, the city’s new security service will be present in the city center along with the police from November 26 to December 30.
Soon after the attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market last year, the concept of access protection was adapted together with the showmen’s association in Oldenburg. “There is currently no real threat to the Oldenburg Christmas market,” the city government said. We are in regular contact with security authorities.
This year, Lambertimarkt’s security concept was revised in collaboration with the fire and police departments. The newly purchased Armis One barriers and Okta blocks, which are intended to prevent traffic, will also be used to protect the market area from road access as best as possible.
© dpa-infocom, dpa:251116-930-298569/1
