
The electric blackout affecting the entire Peninsula is causing the collapse of many roads in Madrid, with traffic lights out of order, forcing citizens, both drivers and pedestrians, to self-manage at every zebra crossing or intersection, sometimes with the assistance of national or local police and mobility agents deployed to regulate traffic.
The power outage is causing a high influx of cars on the main streets and avenues of the city of Madrid, leading to widespread traffic jams along the M-30, where the blackout also hinders the operation of signaling panels.
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The Directorate General of Traffic (DGT) has urged citizens to avoid unnecessary travel, and in some Cercanías stations, such as the central Atocha station, passengers have been evacuated, allowing only store workers to access for closure.
Also, the Mayor of Madrid, José Luis Martínez Almeida, has called on citizens through social media to minimize their movements and keep the roads clear for emergency vehicles.
The Government assures it is working to determine the cause of the blackout and resolve the situation
In the city center, traffic congestion is evident at various points along La Castellana, such as the area around Colón square or Cuzco, where malfunctioning traffic lights force citizens to navigate the avenues with a strong sense of civility.
Urban mobility agents and municipal police are trying to regulate the traffic at the main congested intersections, with some national police officers also deployed in certain areas.
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On Sagasta street, a Red Cross volunteer is also assisting in traffic regulation, while people gather at city bus stops trying to catch a bus back home.
In some schools, like Tirso de Molina in the Arganzuela district, classes are ongoing, meals have been provided, but parents are encouraged to pick up their children before extracurricular activities.