Heightened Security Measures for Hessian Carnival Festivities in Light of Munich Incident
As the vibrant carnival season approaches in Hesse, local authorities and carnival associations are placing a strong emphasis on ensuring the safety of participants and spectators. While there are no specific indications of a threat to carnival events, Interior Minister Roman Poseck (CDU) has acknowledged the ongoing abstract danger.
Ministerial Directives and Law Enforcement Response
"We have not received any concrete indications of a threat to carnival events or other gatherings," Poseck explained, "but we must remain vigilant in light of the potential for abstract danger."
Following the recent incident in Munich, where a driver rammed a vehicle into a protest march, the Hessian government has issued an emergency directive to all police stations. This directive requires them to reassess the security measures in place for upcoming events and implement any necessary adjustments in collaboration with organizers and local authorities. Additional law enforcement personnel will be deployed as needed.
Enhanced Security Measures for Carnival Events
In Gießen, the security concept for the "Fassenachtsumzug" on Fasching Sunday (March 2) has been revised following the attack on the Magdeburg Christmas market. The route has been shortened by approximately one kilometer, and the number of crossings reduced. Barriers, such as parked trucks and cars, will reinforce the secured crossings.
"Our aim is to maximize the safety of participants and spectators with minimal disruption," a city spokesperson said. "We believe these measures will enable us to host a safe and enjoyable event."
The city of Marburg has canceled its traditional carnival parade due to financial constraints. However, a new format has been devised, featuring a stationary carnival procession.
"The former Rosenmontag parade, with its extensive street closures, is simply no longer financially viable," explained Toni Ahlendorf, parade marshal. "In addition to rising costs, the enhanced security requirements also played a role in our decision."
Other Carnival Events Proceed with Security Adaptations
In Fulda, the capital of Hessian carnival, the Rosenmontag parade will proceed as planned, with no changes to the route. The city administration and the event organizer have been coordinating closely with law enforcement and other authorities for months to ensure a secure environment.
The "Klaa Pariser Fastnachtszug" in the Frankfurt district of Heddernheim will take place, but with significantly increased security measures. For the first time, not only the parade route but also the entire district will be closed off.
"We have had to erect around 600 no-parking signs throughout Heddernheim," said Uwe Forstmann of the Zuggemeinschaft, the event’s organizing committee. "These heightened security measures have pushed the costs into the six-figure range." To cover these expenses, the organizers have launched a fundraising campaign.
In Volkmarsen, where a car plowed into a Rosenmontag parade around five years ago, the security measures implemented in recent years remain in place. The city has no plans to cancel the parade.
The Heuchelheim carnival parade near Gießen is also scheduled to take place. However, the escalating security costs are a growing concern for the organizing committee. Similar sentiments have been expressed by carnival associations in Oberursel, Hünfeld, and Heppenheim.
"We will hold the parade," declared Günter Hüttig, chairman of the Dieburg carnival association. "Security is a top priority, and we will work closely with the police to ensure a safe event."
Conclusion
While Hessian carnival festivities proceed with a heightened focus on security, the primary goal remains to provide a joyful and memorable experience for all participants and spectators. The recent incident in Munich serves as a reminder that ongoing vigilance and cooperation are essential to ensuring the safety and well-being of all.
