Port of Marseilles tightens security in wake of Madrid
The Port of Marseilles Authority, in southern France, has stepped up security in response to the Madrid bombings in neighboring Spain on March 11.
New access restrictions and extra patrols are among requirements set by the French government, which has placed the nation on orange alert with specific reference to ports, airports and railway stations.
Measures introduced in Marseilles concern mainly freight and passenger operations in the eastern harbor area. Entry and exit is being controlled through a reduced number of gates, with no access between 10 p.m. and early morning.
Throughout the port, including in the Fos container terminals in the western harbor area, parking controls are being tightened and a total ban has been imposed in “sensitive zones.” Personnel in confined areas must carry authorization issued by the port and will be subject to increased checks to justify their presence.