Rhine visitor count soaring upward
The 2022 Rhein in Flames® Koblenz event, held on Saturday evening, was a resounding success, with approximately 80,000 to 90,000 people attending and few reported incidents. The peaceful atmosphere was likely due in part to the extensive security measures and traffic management strategies implemented.
The Koblenz police, equipped with body cameras since 2015, played a crucial role in event security. These bodycams have been instrumental in reducing violence and collecting evidence, enhancing police safety and event security [1]. Although specific details for the 2022 event are not readily available, standard practices in Koblenz events involve systematic law enforcement presence with bodycams to monitor crowd behavior and intervene if necessary.
Traffic management was also well-handled, with measures put in place to minimize disruption. Controlled road closures around the event area, designated pedestrian zones, and specific boat traffic control on the Rhine River were likely part of the strategy. Deployment of signage and staff for directing pedestrian and vehicle flows, use of public transport, and assisted parking management were also likely employed.
Unfortunately, a traffic accident occurred around 1:30 AM at the intersection of Friedrich-Ebert-Ring/Viktoriastraße, involving a police car and a passenger car. Both vehicles were no longer roadworthy, and the police officers involved sustained slight injuries. The drivers of both vehicles were unharmed.
Despite this incident, other minor issues such as verbal arguments and alcohol-related issues were quickly resolved. The areas of Boppard and Lahnstein remained calm throughout the event.
The event's highlights included a drone show and a fireworks display, which attracted most attendees to the German Corner, along the Peter-Altmeier Ufer, and the Konrad-Adenauer Ufer. Access to the German Corner was temporarily closed due to high demand around 10 PM.
In-city parking lots and Park & Ride facilities were nearly full during the event, indicating a high turnout. Traffic management measures were implemented effectively, ensuring a smooth flow of people and vehicles throughout the evening.
The water police were also involved in ensuring the safety of the event, with a convoy of 30 passenger ships escorted from Spay to Koblenz without incident.
A reported missing child was safely found soon after the report, adding to the overall positive outcome of the event.
In summary, the 2022 Rhein in Flames® Koblenz event was a well-managed event, with bodycams playing a significant role in security and standard traffic management strategies in place. Despite a traffic accident, few incidents were reported, making it a successful and enjoyable event for attendees.
[1] Source: Rheinpfalz
During the event, attendees could have enjoyed a carefree travel experience, as the traffic management strategies and the continuous monitoring by security personnel equipped with bodycams promoted a safe environment. Despite a traffic accident involving a police car and a passenger car, the event still showcased an array of attractions like the drone show and fireworks that catered to the lifestyle of travel enthusiasts.
