The accident on the Manzanares riverbank reopens the debate on night-time safety

The incident occurred near number 44 on the avenue, on a stretch with little traffic at night and with the channel practically without water. According to the initial inquiries, the woman was intoxicated and may have fallen accidentally while looking for a secluded place.

A homeless Tunisian man who was with her at the time was key to activating assistance. He reported what had happened and tried to help her until the Policía Nacional, firefighters and medical teams arrived.

The rescue required the use of special equipment. Firefighters used an adapted stretcher to remove the woman from the channel and take her to a safe area, where she could be treated before being evacuated to hospital.

Police are keeping the investigation open, although for now they are working on the hypothesis of an accidental fall. The case, however, again draws attention to some stretches of the Manzanares where lighting, surveillance and the configuration of the surroundings can increase risks at night.

The river has gained prominence in Madrid’s urban life in recent years, especially after the transformation of Madrid Río. But not all its stretches are experienced in the same way. There are very busy, family-oriented areas, and others that are much lonelier when night falls, where homeless people, poorly visible passageways and spaces that are not always safe coincide.

The accident recalls that other side of the Manzanares: an environment reclaimed for the city, but still uneven depending on the time, the stretch and who inhabits it. For many vulnerable people, these spaces also serve as night-time shelter, which requires looking at the river’s safety beyond strolling, cycling or weekend leisure.