The Ajuntament de Palma will extend the lifeguard service hours at four beaches due to the solar eclipse on August 12. The measure, approved this Wednesday in the Junta de Govern, involves an investment of €2,611.60.
The Ajuntament de Palma approved this Wednesday the modification of the contract for the lifeguard, surveillance, safety, and assisted bathing service at the municipality's beaches to adapt it for the solar eclipse day on August 12. The extended hours, from 19:30 to 21:30, will affect the beaches of Can Pere Antoni, Ciutat Jardí, Cala Estància, and Platja de Palma.
The decision was made by the Civil Protection Commission of the Ajuntament on July 8, in anticipation of a high influx of people who will come to the coast to witness the astronomical phenomenon. The aim is to ensure the safety of beachgoers during the hours when the eclipse will occur, which will take place at sunset.
The modification of the contract, awarded to the company Emergències Set Mil, SL, involves an expenditure of €2,611.60 (including VAT). This amount will cover the additional cost of lifeguard personnel during the two extra hours of service.
The reinforcement of lifeguard services is just one part of the special plan that the Ajuntament has designed for the eclipse. The operation includes traffic and parking restrictions in the Platja de Palma area from early in the day, as well as enhanced public transport to facilitate movement.
Additionally, safe corridors have been established for ambulances and emergency vehicles, and a QR code accreditation system has been set up for the access of authorised private vehicle users, such as workers and clients of establishments with parking.
The plan also includes measures to preserve mobility and ensure access to essential infrastructures, such as hospitals and Palma airport. Rules and recommendations have been published so that residents and visitors can enjoy the eclipse with maximum safety guarantees.
For residents in the areas near the affected beaches, it is recommended to plan movements in advance, especially in the afternoon, and to use public transport whenever possible. The Ajuntament has indicated that bus lines connecting to Platja de Palma and the other beaches included in the plan will be reinforced.
The solar eclipse on August 12 will be visible across the island, but the beaches in the bay of Palma are expected to be among the most frequented spots due to their accessibility and spaciousness. Therefore, the council has prioritised safety in these sandy areas.
The extension of the lifeguard service adds to other already announced measures, such as increased police surveillance and the installation of information points. The Ajuntament has called for citizen cooperation to avoid incidents and ensure that the day goes smoothly.
Bathers visiting the beaches of Can Pere Antoni, Ciutat Jardí, Cala Estància, and Platja de Palma will have surveillance until 21:30, which will cover the moment of the eclipse, expected at around 20:15. The usual service ends at 19:30 at these beaches.
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