Negotiations ongoing after the main public transport operator in Barcelona’s metropolitan area announced action during the four-day conference
Mobile World Congress visitors could be faced with chaotic scenes next week due to a planned transport strike set to take place during the event.
Negotiations are ongoing after metro and bus workers from TMB, the main public transport operator in the metropolitan area of Barcelona announced plans to strike during the four-day conference from February 22-25.
The metro strike is currently expected on Monday and Wednesday, with the bus strike on Tuesday and Thursday. During this time, service would be operated at minimum required levels.
In a statement, organisers the GSMA said it had come up with a back up plan should the strike go ahead, and vowed to take every step possible to ensure MWC is a success.
Contingency plan
“While we are hopeful that a strike can be averted prior to the start of Mobile World Congress, the GSMA has developed a comprehensive contingency plan and is ready to activate this plan should it become necessary.
“The contingency plan outlines alternate transport options for getting to and from the venue, and also describes the additional security measures the police are putting in place to ensure the safe passage of our attendees.
“While we completely understand and appreciate the concerns around the uncertainty of this situation, we want to assure attendees that the GSMA is taking every possible step to ensure the success of Mobile World Congress.
Collect badges early
To minimise possible congestion, the GSMA is advising attendees to register and pick up their badges this weekend. Registration at the Fira Gran Via venue is open both tomorrow and Sunday.
Registration desks at the airport and satellite locations at Sants Estació train station and at Passeig de Gràcia are open from today.