A Festival that Divides Opinions
The International Light Festival Madrid, set to take place from March 12 to 14, has ignited a new controversy surrounding the Manzanares River. The installation of luminous sculptures along its banks has faced strong opposition from ecological groups and local residents, who argue that this initiative transforms the river's ecosystem into a mere stage for tourist events.
Despite the objections, the courts have decided to dismiss a lawsuit filed by Ecologistas en Acción and the Pasillo Verde-Imperial Neighbourhood Association. According to sources from the Environment department, the court determined that the plaintiffs had not exhausted the necessary administrative channels before bringing their complaint to court. This ruling is based on the premise that there was no flagrant illegality as claimed by the complainants.
The court decision indicates that the ecologists were aware since July 2024 that their case was not one of evident illegality. Despite the legal setback, these groups have expressed their discontent with the installation of the lighting called “Nadar la noche,” arguing that it contributes to the “touristification” of the Manzanares and jeopardises its biodiversity.
The ecologists have voiced their concerns over what they consider an inappropriate transformation of the Manzanares. In a recent statement, they asserted: “The Manzanares is neither a hard square nor an ‘eventodrome’ at the disposal of the City Council; it is a living river with recovered biodiversity that demands protection.” This criticism extends beyond the current festival, as they also mention previous projects such as the ornamental lighting at Dam 6, which has been the subject of prior litigation due to its environmental impact.
The Fight to Protect the River Ecosystem Continues
Despite the legal adversities, Ecologistas en Acción reaffirms its commitment to the Declaration of the Rights of the Manzanares River. This document seeks to grant the river its own legal personality to ensure its protection against harmful initiatives. Activists insist that any event or project must be carefully assessed to avoid compromising the ecological health of the environment.
Under the slogan “The Manzanares is Untouchable,” they promise to continue fighting for the river's conservation through social and legal actions.
You may also like
