Spain's village protests spark traffic chaos amid tourist influx
We reported several times this year that the Spanish have had enough tourists. This time, the protesters did not stop at hanging banners and shouting slogans to deter tourists; they went a step further.
Spain has witnessed many protests related to excessive tourism this year. The slogan "Tourists go home!" appeared on many banners. The residents of a small village in northwestern Spain expressed their displeasure in a differently.
Spaniards fight against tourists
In the town of O Hio, residents protested against the number of tourists by blocking pedestrian crossings. Walking back and forth over the crossings almost continuously for an hour caused significant traffic disruptions, exacerbating the problem they were trying to combat. Their method may seem absurd, but the residents stand firm and explain their actions.
- Traffic problems are already common, but this year they have increased at least threefold - said local newspaper "La Voz de Galicia" resident Mercedes Villar. - It's an avalanche of cars that pollutes the environment and affects everyone's life, as tourists park wherever they want, not where they should - she added. - The protest aimed to raise awareness and sound an alarm, said another O Hio resident quoted by Euro News. Stopping tourists in a traffic jam showed what the Spaniards feel every day.
The resident added, "We want people to act courteously and considerately, and if they see no parking space, they should leave the town."
Traffic problems
Spaniards claim their driveways are often blocked, and traffic accidents are becoming more common. Residents are also concerned that the situation will cause problems for emergency vehicles, such as ambulances or fire trucks. Furthermore, they highlight the litter that holidaymakers leave in parking areas.
Residents of the small seaside town say that while they are generally not opposed to tourism, they want the authorities to find a solution that benefits both sides.
