Bleiburg Wiesenmarkt deploys drones for security as 130,000 visitors expected

Bleiburg’s 633rd Wiesenmarkt, an annual market, opens on Friday, with more than 130,000 visitors expected over four days, ORF Kärnten reports.

Police, firefighters, the Red Cross and the municipality have been preparing for months and will deploy additional personnel. Police will use a drone to monitor visitor flows and traffic, while technical barriers will prevent vehicles from entering the market grounds.

For Mayor and market officer Daniel Wrießnig of the Austrian People’s Party, it is his first Wiesenmarkt in the role. He told ORF Kärnten that the tension was rising and said it was a great honour to be at the forefront of the event as mayor for the first time.

Medical services expanded

The security plan also includes wristbands on which parents can write their telephone number and address. If a child goes missing, the wristband will help ensure the child can be collected from the market office. Police will also increase their use of drones.

Medical services have been expanded with three additional ambulances. An emergency doctor will also be on site on Saturday and Sunday, while paramedics will patrol the market grounds throughout the event.

The regional economy is also expected to benefit. About 300 stands have been allocated this year. More than 131,000 people visited the Wiesenmarkt last year.