Spain: Taxi strikes in Madrid and Barcelona Nov. 29 /update 1

Event

Taxi drivers in Madrid and Barcelona will be on strike for 24 hours beginning at 06:00 (local time) on Wednesday, November 29, the latest in a series of protests against the ride-sharing services Uber and Cabify. Most drivers are expected to take part in the strike, meaning there may be very limited taxi services available in both cities. However, minimal services will still be provided outside hospitals and transport hubs for emergency situations, according to a joint statement by taxi unions.

Furthermore, 20,000 drivers are expected to take part in a demonstration in the center of Madrid beginning around midday; taxis will gather at the Atocha train station and drive towards the parliament building. Major traffic congestion is to be anticipated.

Context

There have been a number of strikes this year launched by Spanish taxi drivers to protest the proliferation of ride-hailing transportation apps. Taxi driver federations have long denounced what they perceive as unfair competition posed by these services, which they claim are not subject to the same strict regulations as official taxi drivers.

Advice

Travelers are advised to seek alternative means of transportation and allow for extra time to reach their destinations.