Madrid bans large trucks from city parades

By Alyssa McMurtry

MADRID (AA) – In the wake of terrorist attacks in Nice and Berlin, where trucks ploughed into large crowds killing dozens, Madrid on Tuesday banned such vehicles from the Spanish capital during traditional parades which start today.

Spain is celebrating Three Kings' Day with 18 parades scheduled for the capital alone. From Tuesday, trucks weighing up to almost four tons will be banned in neighborhoods where any of the parades or gatherings are taking place.

Madrid hopes these first-time measures will keep the large crowds safe from a possible terrorist attack.

The ban on trucks comes with additional security measures such as using bollards and police cars to block traffic around the parades.

Additional forces will also be deployed to protect revelers.

Madrid City Hall also said drivers of trucks acting as floats in the parades will be vetted, according to Spanish daily, El Pais.

Spain has been on a level-four terror threat alert -- out of a possible five -- since an attack on a Spanish-owned hotel in Tunisia in June 2015.