Traffic restrictions are set to be implemented across the Balearics on 12 August in anticipation of a significant solar eclipse, though specific details remain under review. This announcement follows a direct appeal from the Més party, whose spokesperson, Lluís Apesteguia, urged President Marga Prohens to enforce a complete 24-hour closure of all access points to the Serra de Tramuntana. This proposed measure, debated during a parliamentary session, would exempt only residents and tourists with accredited accommodation within the restricted zone. While President Prohens has confirmed
that measures will indeed be in place, she has indicated they will not be as stringent as those suggested by Més. Apesteguia, the Més spokesperson, highlighted concerns over unprecedented human pressure expected to descend upon the Balearics on 12 August. He pointed to historical data and a notable surge in accommodation bookings for the date, anticipating a massive influx. The astronomical event, which will last barely a minute, is expected to draw considerable crowds to the Serra de Tramuntana, renowned for its superior viewing points.
Apesteguia underscored the inherent risks, noting that the Serra features “nine accesses with narrow and winding roads” which could easily become gridlocked, potentially making it “impossible to arrive or depart in an emergency”. The regional government, the Balearic Government, has established a commission tasked with preparing the eclipse response plan. However, Més believes that no proposals have been put forward that are “up to the challenge” of effectively dispersing the anticipated crowds. Consequently, the deputy reiterated his call for President Prohens to implement the full
closure of the Serra. President Prohens acknowledged Més’s concerns but deemed their proposal “very bold”. She retorted, “You are not part of the commission and do not know all the work and steps being taken. We have anticipated many decisions by the central government and other autonomous communities.” She also alluded to a recent “trial run” or rehearsal, suggesting thorough preparation. Prohens further argued that the decisions are based on technical criteria rather than political choices. While confirming that restrictions would be in place, she
refrained from specifying their exact nature. However, she firmly ruled out the drastic closure of access points, stating that “the mayors do not quite agree with what is being proposed.” She even suggested that some mayors from Més shared this view, a claim Apesteguia immediately disputed from his parliamentary seat. Prohens concluded by asserting, “The technicians will not dictate how access points can be controlled.”
Balearics, solar eclipse, 12 August, traffic restrictions, Serra de Tramuntana, Més, Lluís Apesteguia, Marga Prohens, road access, crowds, emergency access